Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Turns Green Days After $14.2 Million Trump Renovation
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is once again the focus of national attention after visible algae blooms turned portions of the water green only days after completion of a $14.2 million renovation championed by President Donald Trump.
The project was part of a broader effort to overhaul and beautify prominent federal landmarks ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Renovations included draining the pool, sealing persistent leaks, repainting the basin in what Trump called an “American flag blue” finish, and installing new nanobubbler technology intended to improve water quality and reduce algae growth.
Within days of reopening, however, patches of algae became visible near both ends of the pool. Department of the Interior officials said the growth came from residual algae inside water supply lines that had remained dormant during construction. The department said cleanup crews were removing the bloom and that the new system remains effective.
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The rapid appearance of algae generated widespread discussion online and renewed scrutiny of the project’s cost. Critics highlighted the contrast between promises of a cleaner, more reflective landmark and images showing green water shortly after reopening. Supporters argued that algae outbreaks have historically followed major renovations and pointed to long-standing structural problems the project was designed to address.
Historical records show the Reflecting Pool underwent a separate $34 million reconstruction completed in 2012 that also experienced algae problems shortly after reopening. The site has battled recurring algae growth for decades due to its shallow design, exposure to sunlight, and water circulation challenges.
The next test for the renovation will be whether the new maintenance systems can keep the pool clear through Washington’s hottest summer months.
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