Proposal for Triumphal Arches in Washington, D.C.

Rodney Mims Cook Jr., appointed by President Donald Trump as the head of the Commission of Fine Arts, has proposed the installation of three arches in Washington, D.C., rather than the originally planned single arch. This initiative is part of the preparations for the upcoming America 250 celebrations, aimed at commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The primary arch, a 250-foot structure, is intended to be located near Arlington National Cemetery, across from the Lincoln Memorial.

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The proposal aligns with the vision of Pierre L’Enfant, the French-American architect who designed the layout of Washington, D.C., in the late 18th century. Cook argues that the arches would help fulfill L’Enfant's original plan, which included grand avenues and significant monuments. He stated, “I think the president should do three... He wants to complete the L’Enfant plan. No one has.” The additional arches are suggested to be placed near the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge and the John Philip Sousa Bridge, creating a gateway to the city.

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The proposed arch has faced legal challenges from veterans who argue that it would obstruct the view between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington House, which they describe as a “symbolic and inspiring view.” Critics, including John Haigh, chair of Benedictine College’s architecture program, have expressed concerns about the appropriateness of a triumphal arch in a location meant for solemn remembrance, stating, “A triumphal arch located there is the wrong typology.” Judy Feldman, an art historian and leader of the National Mall Coalition, criticized the proposal as an attempt to reinterpret L’Enfant’s vision.

The Hill

Despite the opposition, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the project, asserting that “great nations build beautiful structures that cultivate national pride and love of country.” She emphasized that the triumphal arch should garner support across political lines. Administration officials have highlighted the potential for the arch to become a significant national landmark, akin to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

The Hill

The proposal is currently under review by the Commission of Fine Arts, which consists predominantly of Trump appointees. Members of Congress have urged the administration to seek congressional approval for the project, which, if realized, would mark the largest federal monument constructed in Washington, D.C., since the Thomas Jefferson Memorial in 1943. The project reflects Trump's broader ambitions to reshape the District, including ongoing renovations to the White House and the Kennedy Center.

The Independent

• “He wants to complete the L’Enfant plan. No one has,” — Rodney Mims Cook Jr., Head of the Commission of Fine Arts

The Hill

• “Great nations build beautiful structures that cultivate national pride and love of country, and this triumphal arch should be a project that all Americans, all political persuasions, can support,” — Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary

The Hill

This proposal for the Triumphal Arches in Washington, D.C., encapsulates a blend of historical homage and contemporary ambition, while also igniting debate over its appropriateness and potential impact on the city's landscape.

The Hill