The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool's new 'American flag blue' liner has faded noticeably since it was installed earlier this year, according to an Associated Press inspection. The coating, which President Donald Trump had praised as a vibrant blue, now appears greyer when viewed from the top of the Washington Monument.
The renovation, initially touted to cost $1.5 million, has ballooned to over $16 million. Trump had promised the pool would be ready by 4 July for America's 250th birthday, but the project has been plagued by problems including algae blooms and peeling paint.
Ohio-based Green Water Solutions received a $1.7 million contract for a water-purification system, while Virginia-based Atlantic Industrial Coatings was awarded $14.7 million to repaint and waterproof the pool. Trump has blamed vandals for the damage, alleging a '350-foot gash' was made in the liner, though no such marks were visible from the Monument view.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that after draining and cleaning, the plan is to 'repair the vandalism and fill it back up.' Court documents show the National Park Service reported a 9 June incident involving a sharp knife or razor. Former Olympic canoeist David Hearn has pleaded not guilty to deliberate damage, with his lawyers arguing he is being scapegoated for poor workmanship.
The reflecting pool is one of several Trump-led projects in Washington, including a $400 million ballroom at the White House and a planned arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington cemetery.
