Kathrine Frich
Art preservationists fear the roaring engines will cause permanent damage to a nearby historic treasure.
When planning a massive outdoor party in a historic city, organizers usually worry about crowd control.
A few loud noises are expected. But sometimes, the biggest threat to local monuments is simply the sheer volume of the entertainment.
Racing through history
President Donald Trump is bringing high-speed motorsport directly to the heart of the capital this weekend, according to Irish star. The Freedom 250 Grand Prix serves as a centerpiece for the 250th anniversary festivities.
White House officials set up the IndyCar race via executive order. Drivers will speed through a temporary seven-turn course weaving past the Smithsonian museums and the Lincoln Reflecting Pool.
But the intense spectacle is causing serious anxiety. Art preservationists fear the roaring engines will cause permanent damage to a nearby historic treasure.
A fragile treasure
The Wilbur J. Cohen Building sits right next to Turn 6 on the race track. Inside, the walls hold stunning Depression-era paintings that earned the building its nickname as the Sistine Chapel of the New Deal.
Experts worry that race cars hitting speeds over 160 mph will create destructive vibrations. Sound waves topping 130 decibels could easily shake the century-old artwork.
Mary Okin, assistant director of the Living New Deal, told WTOP that the government has worked hard to maintain the pieces.
“They’re in pretty good condition,” Okin said. She noted they were recently conserved, which proves how fragile they truly are.
Pushing back
Okin feels the event poses an unacceptable risk. “Given how important these artworks are, there should be all kinds of protections taken, and also a case made that this race should not happen here,” she told WTOP.
She called the setup “foolish and reckless.”
Despite these loud warnings, government agencies are brushing off the concerns. The U.S. General Services Administration issued a statement defending the track layout.
The agency claimed it checked the route and “identified no areas of concern,” adding that they fully support the patriotic celebrations.
One final lap
IndyCar organizers also stepped in to calm the public outrage. They released a statement claiming they have safely run downtown street races for decades.
“We do not anticipate any impact on the structures surrounding the circuit as a result of the racing activity,” the organization stated.
The main event kicks off on Sunday afternoon. The president himself plans to take a ceremonial spin around the track inside his armored limousine.
Local leaders hoped to make the race a yearly tradition. But organizers insist this weekend will remain a one-off spectacle.
Sources: The Irish Star, WTOP, U.S. General Services Administration, IndyCar
