Trump Claims Reflecting Pool Makeover Is ‘Ahead Of Schedule’-After Report Suggests It Won’t Be Done In Time
Forbes • • nation
Key Points:
- Donald Trump’s cosmetic projects around the U.S. Capitol, including a proposed triumphal arch and a national garden of American heroes, are estimated to cost at least $162.5 million.
- Atlantic Industrial Coatings, recommended by Trump for their previous work on his golf club, received a no-bid contract to renovate the Reflecting Pool despite having no prior federal contract experience.
- Since taking office, Trump has initiated or proposed several costly projects, such as demolishing the East Wing of the White House for a $400 million ballroom and bunker, with potential funding increasing to $1 billion for security upgrades.
- The proposed 250-foot-tall Independence Arch could cost up to $100 million, and the National Garden of American Heroes aims to feature 250 life-size statues of notable American figures.
- Additional projects include the $1.9 million paving over of the White House Rose Garden, highlighting a pattern of expensive, high-profile renovations and constructions.