WASHINGTON (AP) — Recently, the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has undergone noticeable changes following its refurbishment led by President Donald Trump. Despite initially receiving a lining in ‘American flag blue,’ the pool’s bottom now appears grayer. This shift was observed by an Associated Press reporter and photographer from the Washington Monument.
In early June, crews repainted and refilled the pool, yet recent drainage revealed debris which has since been cleared. This renovation project aimed for completion by July 4, targeting America’s 250th birthday celebrations.
The intended $1.5 million revamp escalated to over $16 million by June. Despite Trump’s claim that the repairs would endure for a century, the pool soon faced an algae bloom and peeling liner issues. Ohio-based Green Water Solutions secured a $1.7 million contract to install a water-purification system, while Virginia-based Atlantic Industrial Coatings won a $14.7 million contract to repaint and waterproof the pool.
Trump alleges vandalism is to blame for the peeling, though critics question the quality of repair work. He has accused vandals of causing significant liner damage, but no large gashes were visible from the Washington Monument. A perimeter fence limits closer inspection.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated the plan to repair vandalism and refill the pool post-Independence Day cleanup. This plan was shared in a conversation with podcaster Katie Miller.
The National Park Service reported potential vandalism on June 9, with damage attributed to a sharp instrument.
Former Olympic canoe racer David Hearn pleaded not guilty to charges of damaging the pool in D.C. Superior Court. His legal team and critics argue his charges represent prosecutorial overreach, blaming incomplete repairs for the pool’s state. Court records reveal three others charged with misdemeanor counts relating to paint removal also plead not guilty.
The Reflecting Pool renovation is just one among various ambitious projects spearheaded by Trump across Washington, D.C., including demolishing the White House’s East Wing for a $400 million ballroom and planning a large arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
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