Golf has its rightful place in Northern Virginia and the DMV, and now three historic golf courses in the nation’s capital are getting a chance to be better than ever before.
The National Links Trust, an organization formed to promote and protect affordability, accessibility and engaging golf course architecture at municipal golf courses throughout the country, has entered a negotiation with the National Parks Service to restore and rehabilitate three golf courses in Washington, DC, including East Potomac Park, Langston and Rock Creek Park.
“These properties are more than just golf courses,” said Michael McCartin, co-founder of NLT, in the organization’s recent press release. “They are unique cultural and recreational resources with a long and commendable record of offering affordable access to the game of golf. Our plan calls for celebrating the history of the three golf courses, particularly their role in the integration of public golf and recreational facilities in both the greater Washington, DC area and the nation.”
The negotiations for long-term leases for the organization are scheduled to be completed by Wednesday, Sept. 30, and include a proposed multiyear, multimillion-dollar investment by the National Links Trust that aims to honor the history of the golf courses, as well as expand recreational opportunities to underserved communities including seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities and those new to golf.
The organization is partnering with Troon Golf, LLC, an internationally recognized golf management company, to execute lease provisions, as well as golf architects Tom Doak, Gil Hanse and Beau Welling for the renovation of the courses.
“We are also partnering with civic, philanthropic and environmental organizations such as First Tee of Greater Washington, DC, Golf. My Future. My Game., Anacostia Watershed Society and many others that share our vision and commitment to serving youth, historic-user groups and the community generally,” said Will Smith, co-founder of the National Links Trust.
As the lease terms are finalized, more detailed proposals of changes or overhauls to the properties will be announced in the future. Until then, golfers can find local places to tee off here.
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