Washington’s Meridian Hill Park fountain turns brown amid Trump beautification push

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and senior officials highlighted President Donald Trump’s “safe and beautiful” initiative at a ceremony in front of the historic cascading fountain in Meridian Hill Park. After a $4 million renovation, the 13‑basin fountain was refilled in May and drew large crowds.

Within weeks, visitors reported the water turning a murky brown‑orange. Interior Department officials said the discoloration is caused by sediment released after two long‑out‑of‑service water lines were reopened, and that the water should clear in 24–36 hours. Workers were observed cleaning the basins, and the department expects normal clarity soon.

The fountain is one of nine in Washington being restored under Trump’s March 2025 executive order ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. As of the latest visit, only one fountain remains out of service, while two others show brown water. The incident follows ongoing challenges with the Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial, which has also faced delays and vandalism allegations.