WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President Donald Trump has spent much of his two-week vacation in Florida golfing. However, upon his return to the White House, he has set his sights on a military golf course that he has never played, aiming for a major construction project.
The Courses at Andrews, known as the 'President's golf course,' are within the secure confines of Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, approximately 15 miles from the White House. This has been a favored getaway for presidents seeking a respite from their duties. Notably, Barack Obama played there more than any other president, around 110 times during his eight years.
Traditionally, Trump has shown a preference for the golf courses owned by his family, spending about one of every four days of his second term on them. This time, he has enlisted golf champion Jack Nicklaus for the overhaul of the Courses at Andrews.
Michael Thomas, former general manager of the course, remarked on the significance of presidential golf outings. He noted, 'It’s amazing that an individual has time to take a couple hours away from the world crises. They’re people like everybody else.'
Andrews, which also hosts Air Force One, encompasses two 18-hole courses and a 9-hole course. The facilities have seen renovations in the past, with a significant effort in 2018 to modernize infrastructure for presidential aircraft, which impacted the golf courses.
Trump expressed admiration for Andrews when he toured the base by helicopter earlier this month with Nicklaus, stating, 'It's a great place that’s been destroyed over the years, through lack of maintenance.' Despite this assessment, online reviews have been favorable, commending the course's mature trees and scenic water hazards.
Presidential golfing at Andrews dates back to Gerald Ford in 1974, and over the years, various presidents have enjoyed the unique restrictions and luxury afforded to them while playing. According to Thomas, security is tight, with nine holes being blocked off at times for the president's protection and play.
The upcoming renovation, touted as the most significant in years, aims to repair aging facilities. There are discussions about adding a multifunctional event center, but plans are still in the early phases.
Trump has described the renovation as requiring 'very little money.' This project adds to a series of renovations he has initiated, including significant upgrades and expansions at the White House.
As Trump progresses through these updates at Andrews, the plans not only reflect his personal interest in the sport but also a commitment to enhancing recreational spaces for military families.
