The Trump administration has announced it will not seek new bids to repair the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, according to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. The decision comes amidst controversy over the project, including allegations of vandalism and questions about the no-bid contracts awarded to vendors with ties to President Trump.
Background on the Project
The Reflecting Pool, a century-old landmark on the National Mall, has been undergoing renovations. However, the project has been plagued by issues, including an algae bloom and peeling paint. The administration has blamed vandals for some of the damage, with President Trump stating that a 350-foot gash was cut into the pool’s liner.
Authorities have arrested several individuals in connection with the damage, including former Olympian David Hearn, who was indicted on a felony charge of property destruction. Hearn’s lawyers have called the charges “outrageous” and claimed they are an example of “the misuse of government power against an ordinary citizen based on a concocted narrative.”
The Trump administration has faced criticism over the no-bid contracts awarded to vendors with ties to the president. Ohio-based Green Water Solutions and Virginia-based Atlantic Industrial Coatings were awarded contracts worth $1.7 million and $14.7 million, respectively.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
