Trump Pledges To Revamp Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Ahead Of July 4 Celebration

President Donald Trump said he plans to overhaul the reflecting pool at the Lincoln Memorial, calling it “filthy” and promising to restore it in time for the nation’s 250th Independence Day celebration.

Speaking to reporters, Trump said a visitor from Germany recently criticized the condition of the nearly 2,000-foot-long pool, describing the water as dirty and unfit to represent the country. Trump agreed with the assessment and said the site needs a major cleanup.

The reflecting pool, originally built in 1922, has long been a backdrop for historic moments, including speeches by Martin Luther King Jr. and major public demonstrations. Trump noted that despite its significance, the structure has suffered from leaks and wear for years.

According to the president, the renovation will involve draining the pool, cleaning its granite base, and applying what he described as an “American-flag blue” industrial-grade coating. He said the updated surface would last decades and prevent further leakage.

Trump also emphasized cost savings, claiming the project will be completed for between $1.5 million and $2 million, far below earlier estimates that reached into the hundreds of millions and projected a multi-year timeline.

He added that the work is expected to be finished well before July 4, aligning with broader efforts to mark the country’s 250th anniversary.

The reflecting pool project is part of a wider set of proposed developments in Washington, including a planned large-scale monument near Arlington National Cemetery and a new ballroom adjacent to the White House, though some of those initiatives have faced legal and logistical hurdles.