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Trump Celebrates 9-1 Vote to Build 250-Foot Arch

6/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The National Capital Planning Commission voted 9-1 to advance the 250-foot arch.
Nearly 1,700 public comments, almost all opposing, were submitted to the commission.
The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts has granted design approval for the arch.
Chair William Scharf said the 1910 Height of Buildings Act should not limit the monument.
President Donald Trump posted a thank-you message framing the vote as approval to build the arch.

History

Historical Context

Congress enacted the Height of Buildings Act on June 1 1910, capping Washington’s structures at 130 feet. After the 1973 Home Rule Act gave the city local zoning control, the National Capital Planning Commission’s 2013 study revisited the rule. In a 9-1 vote, the commission advanced a 250-foot arch, a move praised by President Trump and contested by Fine Arts chair William Scharf.

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Story summary

The National Capital Planning Commission voted 9-1 to advance the 250-foot arch.
Nearly 1,700 public comments, almost all opposing, were submitted to the commission.
The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts has granted design approval for the arch.
Chair William Scharf said the 1910 Height of Buildings Act should not limit the monument.
President Donald Trump posted a thank-you message framing the vote as approval to build the arch.

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