Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovation costs reach nearly $20 million

The renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has seen costs rise to nearly $20 million following a series of new federal contracts. The Department of the Interior, overseeing the project through the National Park Service, recently awarded a $2.7 million contract to Massachusetts-based American Ag Energy for the repair and maintenance of water purification and sewage systems.

The project has faced significant setbacks, including recurring algae blooms and the peeling of a dark blue sealant applied to the pool. Previous expenditures included $6.2 million and approximately $1.46 million awarded to Atlantic Industrial Coatings LLC, as well as $1.8 million to Ohio-based Green Water Solutions.

While the administration previously indicated it would not seek new contracts after costs exceeded $17 million, this latest award to American Ag Energy could potentially extend for five years, reaching up to $8.8 million. The project was originally intended to be a relatively low-cost refurbishment for the nation's 250th anniversary celebrations.