The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. is being drained again as part of President Donald Trump’s troubled revamp effort. The project, which aimed to have the pool ready for the nation’s 250th birthday celebrations, has been hit with several issues, including an algae bloom and peeling coating.
Renovation Problems
The pool’s problems began shortly after the initial work was finished. Trump blamed vandals for the peeling coating, but critics argue it’s due to shoddy repair work. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that the new round of draining was planned and that the water may still contain debris from a recent Independence Day fireworks display.
The Reflecting Pool project is one of several initiatives Trump has spearheaded in the nation’s capital. Other projects include the demolition of the White House’s East Wing to build a $400 million ballroom and plans to construct a towering arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
Investigations and Criticisms
Democratic senators and House members are investigating the pool project, seeking answers about taxpayer funding and the renovation process. Critics have also accused the Trump administration of scapegoating individuals for the project’s failures, including a former Olympic canoe racer who was charged with deliberately damaging the pool.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
