Trump Visits National Mall for Restoration Project
On Thursday, President Donald Trump traveled to the National Mall, taking a motorcade past a drained reflecting pool. His visit was centered on a restoration project he claims is aimed at fixing the “disaster” from the previous administration.
While standing on the pool’s floor, Trump highlighted the $1.8 million renovation, contrasting it with the $38 million spent by former President Barack Obama, which he referred to as a “construction nightmare” shortly after its completion.
The reflecting pool, spanning over 600 feet between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, is one of America’s most frequented landmarks, attracting millions of visitors annually and serving as the site for significant events and presidential ceremonies.
During his visit, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum discussed the possibility of applying a new industrial-strength sealant. Trump shared that he personally selected the new color for the surface—American flag blue.
“The previous color wasn’t great because it had a gray stone underneath,” he explained to reporters. “This new color is vibrant, long-lasting, and won’t leak. Guaranteed.”
Previous estimates to refurbish the lengthy pool had soared to around $355 million over several years, according to documents from the National Park Service. However, Trump asserted that his team could complete the job in just two weeks and at a significantly lower cost.
The National Park Service had previously managed a major renovation of the pool, finished in 2012, which cost roughly $30 million to fix structural issues and persistent leaks that had long affected the area.
This inspection was part of a larger “beautification” initiative for the capital. Burgum noted that, under Trump’s guidance, over 1,000 graffiti sites and 82 homeless encampments have been cleared in recent times in an effort to enhance the city’s aesthetic.
“No president has put this much care, effort, and investment into our shopping areas,” Burgum remarked.
Trump also teased some upcoming projects, including enhancements to the Lincoln Memorial crypt and plans for the Arc de Triomphe. However, specifics regarding timelines, funding, and approvals were not provided immediately.
