Trump administration plans to begin triumphal arch construction Nov. 5

The Trump administration has notified a federal judge that construction on a proposed 250-foot triumphal arch could begin as early as November 5, 2026. The project is slated for Memorial Circle, located between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.

According to court filings, the start date is contingent upon final approval from the National Capital Planning Commission and a formal decision from the Interior Department. While the administration has described the structure as a ‘ceremonial gateway,’ President Trump has previously suggested the site could host national security functions, such as drone storage and sniper posts. Recent plans submitted to the commission do not explicitly include these military components.

Opponents, including veterans and an architectural historian, have filed a lawsuit to halt the project. They are seeking an injunction from U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, arguing that the administration lacks necessary congressional authorization. Plaintiffs contend the structure would disrupt the solemnity of Arlington National Cemetery and the sightlines of historic national landmarks.