President Donald Trump is set to embark on a significant renovation project at the military golf course located at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. The project, which will be designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, aims to enhance the facilities at what is often referred to as the “president’s golf course.” This initiative comes after Trump has spent considerable time golfing at his own properties during his presidency.
The Courses at Andrews, situated approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) from the White House, have a storied history with past presidents. Gerald Ford was the first to golf there in 1974, and since then, notable figures including Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Joe Biden have enjoyed the greens. The course is particularly famous for its well-maintained grounds, despite some recent dry patches, and features two 18-hole courses along with a 9-hole option.
Trump has traditionally favored golf courses owned by his family, reportedly spending about one in every four days of his second term at these locations. His decision to renovate Andrews reflects a desire to leave a mark on the prestigious military facility, which has been a retreat for presidents seeking respite from their duties.
During a recent visit to the base by helicopter, Trump expressed concerns about the condition of the course. He described Andrews as “a great place, that’s been destroyed over the years, through lack of maintenance.” While some former officials like Michael Thomas, the former general manager of the course, have noted that the grounds are in good shape, Trump’s plans suggest a significant upgrade is on the horizon.
Plans and Expectations for Renovation
The White House announced that this renovation would be the most substantial in the history of Andrews. Improvements are necessary due to age and wear, with discussions underway about incorporating a multifunctional event center into the project. The White House spokesman, Davis Ingle, highlighted Trump’s “extraordinary eye for detail and design,” emphasizing that the upgrades would benefit service members and their families for generations to come.
As of now, the specifics regarding the project’s budget and funding remain unclear, but Trump has indicated that it will require “very little money.” This renovation is part of a broader pattern of construction projects initiated by Trump, which includes plans for a $400 million ballroom at the White House and various improvements at the Kennedy Center.
Trump’s commitment to golfing at Andrews has been evident, as he typically golfs on weekends. An analysis by the Associated Press indicates he has spent around 93 days of his second term playing golf, including time at his own courses in Virginia and Florida.
Presidential Traditions at Andrews
Golf has long been a favored pastime for U.S. presidents, with Andrews providing a unique environment that allows for enhanced security measures during play. When the president is on the course, officials typically block off nine holes to ensure an uninterrupted experience, a practice that is feasible given that the course is not open to the public.
The golf course at Andrews has seen many memorable moments, including Barack Obama cutting a round short in 2011 to participate in a critical national security meeting. While presidents enjoy their time on the course, Michael Thomas recalls that interruptions due to emergencies were rare.
The Andrews golf course opened in 1960 and has since hosted numerous dignitaries and military personnel. With this impending renovation, Trump aims to modernize the facilities while honoring the legacy of a site that has served as a golf retreat for those in the highest office.
As plans for the course unfold, the golfing community and military personnel alike await further details on how these changes will shape the future of golfing at Andrews.
