Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Jun 15
Lincoln Reflecting Pool Turns Green Days After $14.2 Million Renovation
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Jun 15

Lincoln Reflecting Pool Turns Green Days After $14.2 Million Renovation

3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Jun 15

Summary

  • $14.2 million in renovation work was followed within days by algae overrunning the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, leaving the newly repainted basin visibly green.
  • National Park Service crews were skimming and pushing algae toward an aeration area after the basin was painted dark "American Flag Blue" and the pool was refilled last week.
  • The project began in April and was completed as part of preparations tied to the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.
  • The rapid bloom undercut a renovation meant to address leaks and recurring algae problems at one of Washington's most prominent landmarks.

Insights

After a $14.2M fix, why is the Reflecting Pool still plagued by algae before its celebration?
Can a new high-tech purification system truly conquer nature in the iconic Reflecting Pool?