Overview
- The National Park Service quietly awarded an about $389,355 contract to Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. for e‑design and environmental and historic‑compliance work and posted a projected construction solicitation that estimates the renovation at $20 million to $49 million with bids expected January 31, 2027.
- Democratic members of the House Natural Resources Committee disclosed the contract during a mid‑September hearing and sent a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and acting Park Service Director Jessica Bowron demanding all project documents and communications by September 30.
- The Interior Department says the full course design is not finalized and that early notices do not provide a reliable final cost, calling speculation based on solicitation postings premature.
- Preservation groups have sued to block the project, arguing the planned overhaul would violate the 1897 congressional act that created East Potomac Park and limits how the land may be repurposed.
- Neighbors and advocates warn the renovation could raise fees and reduce public access, and site concerns include recent tree removals and a three‑story mound of East Wing debris at East Potomac that tested positive for lead, chromium and other toxic metals.