Donald Trump finishes renovation of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

President Donald Trump announced that the renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., is complete and that water will be filled in the basin by the end of the week. The work included repainting the shallow basin a deep shade nicknamed “American flag blue.” While the administration cited a cost of $1.5‑$2 million, contract records show at least $14.8 million awarded, with the contractor Atlantic Industrial Coatings billed about $13.1 million.

Water began flowing on June 4, with video shown from the Oval Office. The project has drawn criticism for its expense and aesthetic choices, and the Cultural Landscape Foundation has sued to halt the work, arguing the new color mimics a theme‑park look and violates historic preservation standards. In parallel, Trump revealed plans for a new promenade linking the Lincoln Memorial to the Potomac River, a structure that could be named the “Trump Promenade.” The promenade is part of a series of high‑profile alterations to the capital, including a planned arch and a White House ballroom, all of which have sparked debate over the president’s focus on symbolic projects ahead of upcoming elections.