Nicolai Haugsted
First the newly renovated pool faced algae issues. Now a new problem has emerged.
Visitors arriving at one of Washington’s most recognizable landmarks expected to see the results of a multi-million-dollar renovation. Instead, some were met with peeling paint and green-tinted water less than two weeks after the project was declared complete.
The issue has raised fresh questions about a refurbishment effort unveiled by President Donald Trump earlier this month as part of his broader plans to reshape parts of the U.S. capital.
Renovated pool already showing signs of wear
According to Reuters, paint was visibly flaking from the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on Thursday and drifting through the water.
The historic pool underwent a major overhaul this year under a $14.7 million contract. Trump announced on June 6 that the work had been completed.
By Tuesday, however, maintenance crews had reportedly begun adding hydrogen peroxide to the pool to combat an algae bloom that had turned the water green rather than the deep blue appearance expected after the renovation.
Visitors unimpressed
Some tourists expressed frustration after seeing the condition of the landmark.
“I want my money back after seeing this. I think our resources could be used a lot better elsewhere,” Robert Dale of Edwards, Colorado, told Reuters while visiting the site.
He added: “I think this reflecting pool was beautiful before, before all this attention.”
Part of broader Washington makeover
The reflecting pool project forms part of Trump’s wider effort to transform the nation’s capital.
Plans have included the construction of a new White House ballroom following the demolition of the East Wing, as well as a large monument near Arlington National Cemetery.
Critics have argued that several of the projects have moved forward more quickly than traditional planning processes normally allow. The administration has dismissed such criticism, maintaining that Trump’s background in real estate development makes him well-suited to oversee the initiatives.
Questions continue over major projects
Debate surrounding the reflecting pool comes as lawmakers continue to scrutinize other high-profile Trump projects.
Among them is the administration’s decision to accept a $400 million aircraft from Qatar for future use as Air Force One. Security specialists have warned that extensive upgrades would be required before the aircraft could safely transport the president, including enhanced communications systems and missile-defense capabilities.
The National Park Service, which oversees the National Mall, had not publicly commented on the condition of the reflecting pool at the time of reporting. Atlantic Industrial Coatings, the Virginia-based company that carried out the renovation work, also had not issued a statement.
