Bikers and Musicians Rally at East Potomac Park as Golf Course Closure Looms

Costumed cyclists and a street band filled the air with music and movement at East Potomac Park on Saturday, marking the fourth installment of the Hains Point Hoopla. Organized by the Washington Area Bicyclist Association, the event drew hundreds of participants, including members of the District Running Collective and the D.C. Activist Street Band, who gathered to oppose the planned changes to the park's golf course.

The protest follows a contentious legal battle over the site. In February, the Trump administration announced plans to renovate the East Potomac Golf Links into a championship-level facility intended to host major tournaments such as the Ryder Cup, the President's Cup, or the U.S. Open. A golfer speaking at the Saturday rally noted the administration's desire to secure one of these prestigious events for the location.

Disputes over the scope of the project intensified recently. The administration removed hundreds of trees from the park earlier this month, describing the action as routine maintenance. However, during a court hearing on Friday, the administration appeared to acknowledge that the tree removal was part of the broader renovation plan. Judge Ana Reyes of the federal court issued an order banning the administration from removing any additional trees.

Rebecca Miller, executive director of the D.C. Preservation League, which is suing to block the renovation, said the administration had previously claimed there was no plan to expand the course. She stated that the administration has continued to assert a lack of plans since February, a position she described as false. Miller said Judge Reyes challenged the administration on this point during Friday's hearing.

Despite the court order, the president announced on Saturday that the East Potomac Golf Links will close on Nov. 15. Elizabeth Kiker, executive director of WABA, said her group is prepared to continue its efforts. She acknowledged the fatigue among supporters but emphasized the importance of the fight against the federal government's actions.

WABA is scheduled to hold a lobby day on Capitol Hill on Nov. 12. The group also plans to organize another protest on Nov. 15, the day the golf course is set to close. The Department of the Interior has been contacted for comment regarding Friday's hearing and future steps, and a response is pending.

Leon Bournes of the District Running Collective described the park as a collective space that residents have cherished throughout their lives. The group's activities this week aim to maintain public attention on the site as the legal and political processes move forward.