The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool in Washington D.C. has once again become a focal point for controversy, with plans to drain its waters amid claims of vandalism. The move comes just weeks after a contentious £11 million renovation project led by former US President Donald Trump, which aimed to transform the pool's bottom into 'Old Glory Blue' in time for the country's 250th anniversary.
Trump attributed the recurring issues of algae blooms and peeling paint to vandalism, alleging that five individuals had been arrested and a further five were under investigation. Addressing reporters, Trump described a substantial slit in the pool's painted lining as between 290 and 300 feet long, before revising this figure to 350 feet. He also claimed that fertiliser had been introduced into the water, exacerbating the growth of algae. However, journalists who visited the site on Sunday reported no visible evidence supporting these claims of damage.
The previous renovation was marred by reports of rapid deterioration, with the water turning green due to algae and the new paint coating detaching from the pool's surface within days of its completion. Trump awarded a no-bid contract for the work to a company he claimed had previously worked on swimming pools at one of his golf clubs.
Despite these concerns, Trump has remained resolute in blaming 'vandals' rather than the contracting company. When pressed for evidence to substantiate his claims of arrests and ongoing investigations, he directed reporters to contact the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service. Neither agency, nor the US Park Police, provided an immediate response to requests for comment.
It remains unclear precisely when the draining will commence, but a spokesperson for the DC Water Authority confirmed that a temporary permit has been issued to the National Park Service. This permit allows for the discharge of water into a sewer system that leads to a local treatment facility, and it is valid from June 16th until July 2nd.