Visitors at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., faced disappointment on Monday as the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool stood partially drained and enclosed by fences. This temporary measure is part of a controversial renovation project that has faced scrutiny over maintenance issues and claims regarding damage to the historic pool.
The ongoing renovation aimed to prepare the pool for Fourth of July celebrations commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Officials explained the draining helps crews clear debris from Independence Day fireworks, inspect and repair the pool’s liner, and tackle other maintenance concerns.
“Vandals reportedly damaged sections of the newly-installed liner,” said President Donald Trump, describing it as a “350-foot gash.” Authorities have arrested and charged several individuals, though at least one denies any wrongdoing. This issue has stirred debate over the multimillion-dollar refurbishment project, which involved a dark blue coating on the pool’s century-old base.
During Washington’s bustling summer travel season, disruptions like these are especially noticeable. The Lincoln Memorial attracts approximately 8.5 million visitors annually, while more than 27 million people visit the capital each year. Tourists were visibly upset by the closing of major landmarks.
One man, visiting from Reno, Nevada, was dismayed by the pool’s condition. “I used to live here… it was relaxing and nice, and now it’s totally ruined,” he shared. Landon Miller, also from Reno, remarked on the irony of the situation. “This is supposed to be the epitome of the United States. If this doesn’t represent the current state of politics, then nothing else does,” he noted.
A visitor from Charleston, South Carolina, expressed disappointment as his children couldn’t experience the Reflecting Pool’s splendor. “Stuff happens,” he said, acknowledging the situation. Local resident Paul Zeisset criticized the renovation outcome, noting, “It’s not natural to have it fenced off.”
Since renovations, the pool has faced additional challenges. Reports of algae growth and peeling coating appeared shortly after the pool was refilled in June. Damage to the liner was identified on June 9, attributed by the Trump administration to vandalism. Critics have questioned whether the issues originate from the renovation itself.