The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has been the subject of considerable attention since its bottom surface was lined with a coating described by President Donald Trump as “American flag blue.” Observations made from the Washington Monument reveal the pool’s liner, installed in early June, now appears grayer than initially intended.
Debris present earlier was largely cleared away by work crews after the pool was drained. However, the project deviated from Trump’s timeline to have the pool ready for the nation’s 250th anniversary on July 4.
The renovation costs escalated significantly. Initially estimated at $1.5 million, expenses reached over $16 million by June. Trump’s assurances that the repairs would last a century were questioned following an algae bloom and peeling coating shortly after completion.
Green Water Solutions, a company based in Ohio, received a $1.7 million contract to install a water purification system, while Atlantic Industrial Coatings from Virginia was awarded $14.7 million to repaint and waterproof the pool’s concrete floor.
Vandalism charges have also been pertinent to this project. Trump attributes the issues to vandalism, claiming without evidence that vandals caused a “350-foot gash” in the liner. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated plans to repair these alleged damages and refill the pool are in place.
An incident involving former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, accused of damaging the pool’s liner, has garnered media attention. Hearn claimed he examined the pool’s sealant at the request of a park worker. His legal defense argues the charges are misplaced, blaming the project’s issues on poor repair work.
Court records show Hearn, along with others, faced charges for allegedly removing paint pieces from the pool. All individuals have pleaded not guilty.
The Reflecting Pool work is among several projects initiated by Trump in Washington, D.C. This includes demolishing the White House’s East Wing for a new $400 million ballroom and the proposition of constructing an arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.