Judge to Weigh Injunction on $13.1 Million Lincoln Reflecting Pool Repaint
Updated
Updated · CNN · May 18
Judge to Weigh Injunction on $13.1 Million Lincoln Reflecting Pool Repaint
10 articles · Updated · CNN · May 18
Thursday’s hearing before US District Judge Carl Nichols will decide whether to halt the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool repainting after workers covered about two-thirds of the 2,800-foot basin in “American Flag Blue.”
The lawsuit from the Cultural Landscape Foundation argues the Trump administration skipped required environmental and public-review steps, warning the landmark could be left partially painted if work is stopped mid-project.
Trump has pushed to finish the overhaul by July 4 after initially targeting this week, while workers told CNN they need about another month and the Interior Department says the blue coating will improve reflection and visitor experience.
Federal records show the project’s cost has risen to $13.1 million from Trump’s initial $1.8 million estimate, with officials blaming the accelerated schedule; the work was awarded through a no-bid contract now drawing Capitol Hill scrutiny.
The fight has widened beyond aesthetics into a dispute over preservation and politics, with critics saying the pool’s historic role on the National Mall is being altered as Trump seeks to remake Washington landmarks before the US 250th birthday.
Will painting the iconic Reflecting Pool a vibrant blue enhance it or erase a piece of American history?
Why did a landmark renovation's cost increase sevenfold to $13.1 million under a no-bid contract?
Is the new paint and filtration system a lasting fix or a costly temporary solution for the historic pool?