Annapolis, MD, December 19, 2025
Congress has blocked the U.S. Naval Academy from building a second golf course at Greenbury Point Conservation Area, ensuring public access to this important natural space. The prohibition is part of the National Defense Authorization Act, which reflects community concerns about environmental impacts and the loss of recreational areas. Local advocacy played a significant role in this legislative decision, preserving Greenbury Point as a destination for outdoor activities for future generations.
Congress Blocks Naval Academy’s Plan for Second Golf Course at Greenbury Point
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Congress has prohibited the U.S. Naval Academy from constructing a second golf course at the Greenbury Point Conservation Area, a move that preserves public access to the popular natural site.
Legislative Action
December 17, 2025 — The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2026, which passed both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, includes a provision introduced by Senator Chris Van Hollen, Senator Angela Alsobrooks, and Representative Sarah Elfreth. This provision specifically prohibits the development of a golf course at Greenbury Point, ensuring the area remains accessible to the public.
Background
Greenbury Point Conservation Area — Located at the mouth of the Severn River in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, Greenbury Point is a Navy property managed by Naval Support Activity (NSA) Annapolis. The 231-acre peninsula is a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts, offering trails for hiking, running, and dog walking. Its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay makes it a vital natural resource.
Proposal for Second Golf Course — In February 2025, Chet Gladchuk, president of the Naval Academy Golf Association, proposed leasing the land to build a second golf course. The plan faced significant opposition from environmental organizations, local residents, and conservationists who expressed concerns about potential environmental impacts and the loss of public access.
Community Response
Public Opposition — The proposal sparked a grassroots movement, with numerous environmental groups and community members advocating to preserve the area. Their efforts culminated in the legislative provision now included in the NDAA, reflecting a strong community commitment to protecting Greenbury Point.
Conclusion
Preservation of Public Access — The inclusion of this provision in the NDAA ensures that Greenbury Point Conservation Area remains a public space, maintaining its environmental integrity and accessibility for future generations.
FAQs
- What is the Greenbury Point Conservation Area?
- The Greenbury Point Conservation Area is a 231-acre peninsula located at the mouth of the Severn River in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Managed by Naval Support Activity (NSA) Annapolis, it serves as a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, offering trails for hiking, running, and dog walking. Its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay makes it a vital natural resource.
- What was the proposal for a second golf course?
- In February 2025, Chet Gladchuk, president of the Naval Academy Golf Association, proposed leasing the land at Greenbury Point to build a second golf course. This plan faced significant opposition from environmental organizations, local residents, and conservationists who expressed concerns about potential environmental impacts and the loss of public access.
- How did Congress respond to the proposal?
- Congress responded by including a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2026, introduced by Senator Chris Van Hollen, Senator Angela Alsobrooks, and Representative Sarah Elfreth. This provision specifically prohibits the development of a golf course at Greenbury Point, ensuring the area remains accessible to the public.
- What is the significance of this legislative action?
- The inclusion of this provision in the NDAA reflects a strong community commitment to preserving public access to Greenbury Point. It ensures that the area remains a public space, maintaining its environmental integrity and accessibility for future generations.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Greenbury Point Conservation Area is a 231-acre peninsula located at the mouth of the Severn River in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. |
| Management | Managed by Naval Support Activity (NSA) Annapolis. |
| Public Access | Serves as a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, offering trails for hiking, running, and dog walking. |
| Proposed Development | In February 2025, a proposal was made to lease the land to build a second golf course. |
| Legislative Response | Congress included a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2026, prohibiting the development of a golf course at Greenbury Point. |
| Significance | The legislative action ensures that Greenbury Point remains a public space, maintaining its environmental integrity and accessibility for future generations. |
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