President Donald Trump says he’s partnering with golf legend Jack Nicklaus to overhaul the golf facilities at Joint Base Andrews — the historic military installation long known for hosting presidents on the tee.
After taking an aerial tour of the Courses at Andrews aboard Marine One, Trump told reporters he plans to revitalize both the base and its recreational amenities. “We’re gonna try and reinstitute the golf courses,” he said. “I’m meeting with the greatest, Jack Nicklaus. He’s involved in trying to bring their recreational facility back.”
Just 15 miles from the White House, the sprawling Andrews complex houses Air Force One and features three 18-hole courses, practice greens, dedicated short-game areas, and a driving range. While many presidents have played there — Gerald Ford was the first in 1974, and Barack Obama was a frequent visitor — Trump has largely preferred his own properties in New Jersey, Florida, and Virginia.
According to Trump, at least two of the Andrews courses are “in very bad shape,” describing the entire area as having deteriorated “through lack of maintenance.” He said Nicklaus would take the lead on the redesign. “Jack will be the architect and he’ll design it,” Trump noted, adding that improvements could be achieved “for very little money.”
Nicklaus, winner of 18 majors and head of a design firm responsible for more than 425 courses worldwide, has collaborated with Trump properties before, including projects in Florida and New York.
The announcement sparked immediate questions about who would cover the cost of Nicklaus’ involvement and the broader renovations. Since Andrews is military property, clarification is needed on whether taxpayer funds, private donations, or other sources would finance the upgrades. The base referred inquiries to the White House, which has not provided details.
The proposed Andrews renovation joins a growing list of high-profile building and design projects Trump has pursued since returning to office. These include the controversial demolition of the White House East Wing to construct a $300 million privately funded ballroom, a redesigned Rose Garden patio, multiple interior renovations, and an expansive “Walk of Fame” along the Colonnade. Trump has also floated plans for a Paris-style monumental arch near the Lincoln Memorial.
As questions mount about the scope, cost, and oversight of the Andrews project, one thing is clear: if the plan moves forward, the “president’s golf course” may soon receive its most dramatic transformation yet.
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