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Trump gives an update on Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
USA Today • • nation
Key Points:
- The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, drained in April for extensive renovations, was drained again in July due to vandalism that caused significant damage to the pool's basin, according to President Donald Trump.
- The pool, which had leaked millions of gallons of water annually, was being relined with polyurea to stop leaks and change its color to "American Flag Blue," but the project costs rose from an initial estimate of $1.5 million to over $16 million.
- Three individuals, including former Olympian David Hearn, were charged with vandalism related to the damage, though all pleaded not guilty.
- The pool experienced issues with algae growth and peeling lining shortly after renovations were completed, prompting additional treatments to improve water clarity.
- Maintenance challenges with the Reflecting Pool have persisted since its opening in 1923, with previous repair efforts by the Obama administration also failing to provide a permanent solution.
