Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Drained Again Amid Trump Renovation Problems

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. has been drained repeatedly as the Trump administration’s renovation faces repeated setbacks. What began as a promised "American Flag Blue" makeover costing about $1.5 million quickly grew to over $16 million. Shortly after the work was finished in early June, the pool developed an algae bloom and the new coating began to peel, prompting further repairs.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said the latest drainage is intended to remove debris from the July 4 fireworks display and to fix damage attributed to "vandalism." Several people, including former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, have been arrested on felony vandalism charges, though the defendants deny wrongdoing and argue the problems stem from the renovation itself. A lawsuit filed by the Cultural Landscape Foundation challenges the project's compliance with historic preservation laws.

Tourists have expressed disappointment at being unable to view the iconic pool, and the repeated closures have drawn criticism over the project's cost overruns and execution.