The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington D.C. is being drained again as part of President Donald Trump’s troubled revamp efforts. The project, which aimed to have the pool ready by July 4 to mark the nation’s 250th birthday, has been hit with several issues, including an algae bloom and peeling coating.
Renovation Problems
Despite initial claims that the renovation would last a century, the pool has experienced significant problems. The water was drained and the bottom was painted what Trump called ‘American flag blue.’ However, within weeks of the project’s completion, the water was beset by an algae bloom and pieces of the new coating appeared to be peeling off the bottom.
Trump has blamed the peeling on vandals, while critics allege it’s due to shoddy repair work. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has stated that the new round of draining was planned and that the water might still contain debris from the Independence Day fireworks display.
Investigations and Criticisms
Democratic senators and House members are investigating the pool project, seeking answers about the amount of taxpayer funding involved. The Trump administration has come under criticism for its handling of the project, with some accusing the administration of mismanaging the renovation and wasting taxpayer dollars.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.