The US Commission of Fine Arts, composed of Donald Trump appointees, has approved designs for a 250ft triumphal arch in Washington. The vote marks a significant step forward for the project, which will be situated near Arlington National Cemetery.
Rodney Mims Cook Jr, the panel’s chair, defended the decision, stating that Washington must evolve to allow future generations to celebrate their achievements. He described the building as “beautiful”. The arch, nicknamed the “Arc de Trump”, will include a public viewing deck.
The Trump administration has touted the monument as a potential world-famous landmark, arguing its location near the cemetery will serve as a reminder of sacrifices made by American heroes. However, a lawsuit filed earlier this year by military veterans and preservationists seeks to halt construction, claiming it lacks congressional approval and would obstruct views from the cemetery to the Lincoln Memorial.
A White House official stated in April that the project’s cost is still being calculated and will be funded through public and private sources. The administration has argued in legal filings that it has the authority to build the structure without congressional approval.
The arch is one of several high-profile Trump projects in Washington, including a White House ballroom and renovations to the reflecting pool on the National Mall. Trump welcomed the news, calling the arch “beautiful” and confirming the approval from the Fine Arts commission.
