Trump unveils latest repairs to Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
The project, originally estimated at $1.8 million, has seen total spending exceed $16 million following coating failures and algae growth.
US President Donald Trump visited the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, DC, on November 2, 2026, to present the latest repairs to the landmark. The project follows issues with the previous blue coating, which peeled and allowed algae to turn the water green after the pool was refilled in June.
According to The Times of India, the renovation was intended to address maintenance issues before the United States' 250th anniversary in July 2026. The recent work included new pipework, water circulation equipment, algae-control measures, and resurfacing.
The total expenditure for the project has risen significantly. While Trump initially estimated costs at approximately $1.8 million, federal contract records show the main resurfacing contract with Atlantic Industrial Coatings reached about $14.7 million. Additionally, the National Park Service awarded Green Water Solutions a $1.74 million contract for a nanobubble system to tackle algae, bringing total spending beyond $16 million.
The Interior Department attributed lighter patches in the pool to excess coating and suggested some damage was due to vandalism. However, Atlantic Industrial Coatings had previously identified issues such as insufficient primer application and incompatible chemical materials that caused the layer to blister.
The Justice Department has dropped charges against individuals accused of damaging the pool, and a judge ruled that prosecutors could not refile charges against former Olympic canoeist David Hearn. The pool is currently open to visitors.
