Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 20
Park Service Workers Remove Algae From 2,028-Foot Lincoln Reflecting Pool After $14 Million Makeover
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 20

Park Service Workers Remove Algae From 2,028-Foot Lincoln Reflecting Pool After $14 Million Makeover

3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 20

Summary

  • National Park Service crews in waders were sucking up dead algae from the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on Wednesday.
  • The cleanup followed green streaks that marred the pool after a $14 million renovation meant to give the landmark water an “American flag blue” appearance.
  • Hot, humid weather helped the algae thrive, and visitors said the bloom looked predictable despite the makeover.
  • The problem hit one of Washington’s most symbolic sites — the 2,028-foot pool before the Lincoln Memorial, where major civil rights gatherings were held.

Insights

After a $14 million renovation, why did the Reflecting Pool's new 'American flag blue' surface immediately turn green?
With high-tech solutions failing, are old, leaky pipes the real culprit behind the pool's chronic algae problem?