President Donald Trump has reopened the refurbished Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a project initially estimated at $2 million but with costs reportedly creeping toward $20 million. The pool, a key feature of Washington's landscape, is now open to the public, with fences removed and clear water reflecting the iconic Washington Monument.
However, the project's completion has not silenced critics. Concerns have been raised about the dark blue coating Trump insisted upon, which some fear could lead to recurring algae blooms, a problem that plagued the pool shortly after its initial reopening in June. The coating, described as "American flag blue, " is said to absorb more sunlight, potentially warming the water and fostering algae growth.
In June, the pool's water turned green, and the new coating began to peel, prompting a second draining. Trump attributed the issues to vandalism, leading to the arrest of former Olympic canoeist David "Davey" Hearn, who was later cleared of charges. Federal prosecutors acknowledged the damage was due to a "botched installation" by the contractor.
Online commentators have been quick to express skepticism about the pool's future. Some have humorously suggested that the expensive renovation merely created a "luxury resort" for algae. Others questioned whether taxpayers would receive a refund for the flawed work.
Despite the criticism, some visitors have expressed satisfaction with the pool's current state. A parent noted that her daughter enjoyed a school visit to the site, observing that the water appeared clear and not painted blue.
The Reflecting Pool's renovation has also become a topic of political discourse. At a rally in Ohio, former President Barack Obama mocked Trump's "drain the swamp" slogan, quipping that the only thing drained was the Reflecting Pool after a problematic contract. This jab was particularly pointed given that Trump's administration had previously blamed algae issues on an Obama-era renovation.
Trump has admitted that the decision to use the blue paint was influenced by his chosen contractor. As costs escalated, reportedly reaching nearly $20 million, Hearn's representatives have demanded an apology for the wrongful accusation.
For now, the Reflecting Pool stands clear and accessible, but the looming summer heat in Washington, D. C., could test whether the costly renovation will hold up or if taxpayers will face further expenses.
