Golfers at Langston say they would be open to the idea as long as the history is preserved and the price of a round of golf remains affordable.
WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is exploring an unusual option to manage Langston Golf Course in Northeast D.C., turning to the Washington Commanders as it searches for a new operator.
The administration is seeking a replacement after canceling the government’s lease with the National Links Trust, a nonprofit that restores public golf courses.
The Interior Department recently approached the Commanders’ charitable foundation about possibly overseeing Langston. The course holds deep historical significance as a longtime home for African American golfers in the region.
A spokesperson with the Commanders told WUSA9 the organization has been asked to explore whether it can play a role in renovating the course and is studying the needs of the facility.
According to a source familiar with the talks, the Commanders would like to be a constructive partner but emphasize they are not golf operators.
The source said, “We are conscious of the unique role Langston has played in the history of DC for Black golfers, and if we can play a role in supporting its future, we would be open to it.”
Golfers at Langston expressed support for potential improvements, while emphasizing the importance of preserving the course’s history.
“I think any renovation here at Langston is good. I mean, there’s a lot of history here. Anything they can do to make the course better is good for the city,” said Jermaine Williams, a golfer at the course.
The Trump administration has not provided additional details about its plans for Langston.
A Commanders spokesperson said in a statement:
“We’ve been asked to look at if we can play any role in the renovation of Langston Golf Course adjacent to the future home of RFK stadium and are studying the needs of this historic facility that has contributed so much to D.C.’s golf history.”