The Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial is experiencing issues following a recent renovation. Efforts by National Park Service crews to clean algae have been complicated by a new problem: the peeling of the “American flag blue” coating.
Recently, the pool’s fresh paint job appeared uneven. An algae bloom then turned the water acid green. Now, large sections of the paint are peeling off, revealing islands of blue amid pea-green patches.
The pool’s makeover was part of President Trump’s project to reseal and repaint the century-old structure. The renovation aimed to complete before the 250th birthday of the United States. However, the project has faced multiple setbacks.
The Interior Department stated on social media that crews had eradicated the algae, exacerbated by hot and humid conditions. They boasted of “crystal clear” waters. Images showed the Washington Monument reflected in deep blue. However, some experts argue that the pool’s waters will not achieve a vibrant blue until underlying problems are addressed.
On Friday, a different scene unfolded. Despite National Park Service efforts to remove the algae, loose clumps remained. Two large sections of the new coating were missing. One gap reached the size of a park bench, and beneath lay the original concrete.
Alex Hobe, 52, noticed the state of the pool during a food delivery in the area. Holding a small paint chip he found floating, he described its semitransparent and rough texture.