Developers are Targeting Reston National Golf Course Again, Local Group Claims

RESTON, VA — Two years ago, 49 protesters from Rescue Reston gathered in front of the offices of Northwestern Mutual to spell out the word "No" to demand they cease from trying to develop Reston National Golf Course. Now, it looks like they may need to start up the fight again.

It took a lengthy and expensive legal battle to get Northwestern Mutual to give up on the 168-acre golf course, which didn't happen until last March. But Rescue Reston is once again sounding the alarm that the golf course is being advertised as a prime investment opportunity for residential development.

"This morning Rescue Reston was alerted by a supporter that ARA Newmark, an investment advisory firm, has listed the Reston National Golf Course property as being for sale for development purposes," Rescue Reston said in a statement released on Tuesday. "The marketing materials state that the property consists of '168 Acres of By-Right Residential Development.'"

Rescue Reston asserts that the land is "clearly" designated by Fairfax County as open space to be used as a golf course, and a residential development plan would require a review by the county and multiple public hearings. The organization says they've contacted the county and have been informed that no applications have been filed on the property.

The golf course is owned by RN Golf Management, which is owned by Northwestern Mutual. Connie Hartke, president of Rescue Reston, said in the statement she suspects that "this is the first round to determine what the market will bear. A call for bids, if you will."

Hartke pledged that the organization would battle any attempt to redevelop the golf course.

“We will mobilize our allies and supporters as necessary to oppose any attempt to amend the Comprehensive Plan that would threaten our open space. We ask that supporters who wish to stay well informed subscribe to our newsletter or update your contact information at RescueReston.org/contact,” she said in the statement.

Image via ARA Newmark