Story perspectives

Trump Renovation Sparks Algae, Damage, Drain Plan After July 4

6/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

A June 9 filing says a knife cut the Reflecting Pool’s liner and fence-post tops were tossed into the water.
President Donald Trump’s $14.7 million renovation caused algae, peeling coating, and a plan to drain the pool after July 4.
The National Park Service will drain the pool after Independence Day, after six arrests, seven citations, and Senate criticism from Senators Jeff Merkley and Martin Heinrich labeling the project a massive waste.

History

Historical Context

In 1970 the National Park Service finished a $2.5 million Reflecting Pool renovation that soon needed $1.1 million emergency repairs, prompting congressional scrutiny. After a 2009-2012 concrete overhaul, the pool was resurfaced again in 2026 under President Donald Trump, who chose a blue polyurea coating and a $13.1 million contract without standard reviews. Senators Jeff Merkley and Martin Heinrich now condemn the $14.7 million project as wasteful.

1 of 2

Story summary

A June 9 filing says a knife cut the Reflecting Pool’s liner and fence-post tops were tossed into the water.
President Donald Trump’s $14.7 million renovation caused algae, peeling coating, and a plan to drain the pool after July 4.
The National Park Service will drain the pool after Independence Day, after six arrests, seven citations, and Senate criticism from Senators Jeff Merkley and Martin Heinrich labeling the project a massive waste.

1 / 2