Plan for Monumental Arch in D.C. Approved
A significant federal committee has approved plans for a grand arch in Washington, D.C. This decision is part of the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of America.
The Commission on Fine Arts (CFA) considered a revised proposal for an “Arc de Triomphe” to be placed in Memorial Circle near the Arlington Memorial Bridge. The project now awaits further approval from the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), which is set for June 4, as reported by *The Washington Post*.
The CFA, a seven-member group composed of experts in architecture, urban planning, and art, is tasked with advising the government on federal buildings and monuments. Established by Congress in 1910, its members are appointed by the president for four-year terms.
President Donald Trump first proposed this arch in October 2025, showcasing a model during a donor dinner at the White House. Since then, there has been a lot of scrutiny and changes made by architects and other concerned parties. The arch, in conjunction with other temporary structures, is aimed at commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.
Any monuments on federal land need to pass reviews based on historical and environmental criteria and must secure approvals from both the CFA and NCPC. Additionally, large projects may require congressional approval for funding and permits.
Architects are targeting July 2028 for the estimated $15 million project’s completion.
The construction plans highlight a 250-foot granite arch, which will feature a 24-karat gold-plated Statue of Liberty on top, flanked by two eagles. This height would position it as the second tallest structure in D.C., just behind the Washington National Monument.
The arch is expected to have the phrases “Liberty and Justice for All” and “One Nation Under God” engraved on either side, following the design inspiration from Paris.
After initial plans received CFA endorsement in April, suggestions for changes were made. Notably, the idea of incorporating an 8-foot-tall pedestal and four golden lions was shelved because officials indicated that these animals aren’t “native” to the U.S.
A commission member previously recommended lowering the height of the arch and reducing some of its decorative elements; however, the White House did not accept these proposals.
Public sentiment toward the arch seems mixed. The CFA collected around 600 public comments prior to their recent meeting, and it was noted that a substantial majority of these were not in favor of the project.
Critics have raised issues regarding the arch’s size, cost, purpose, legality, and potential impacts on air traffic.
A group of U.S. Vietnam veterans has even initiated a lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that the arch would obstruct views of Arlington National Cemetery, thereby disrupting the symbolic connection to the Lincoln Memorial via the bridge.
Interior Secretary Doug Bergman conveyed to the committee that the arch aims to elevate the significance of its location, enriching the historical character of Washington.
He emphasized that “great nations construct beautiful buildings and artworks that inspire national pride and love for the country.” He suggested that this arch would embody “American Freedom, American Unity, American Strength, and the American Dream.”
The CFA president complimented the design, calling it “a very elegant building.”
There are Democratic efforts underway to secure Congressional approval for the arch, while President Trump believes that such approval is unnecessary, referring to a similar parliamentary approval from 1924.
As of now, there has been no further comment from the White House, and the CFA has yet to respond to a request for comments.
