Story perspectives

Vietnam Veterans Sue Over 250-Foot Arch Blocking Views

7/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

National Capital Planning Commission staff recommended revisions to the 250-foot arch to meet the 1910 Height of Buildings Act.
Vietnam veterans and a historian sued, saying the arch would block the sightline from Lincoln Memorial to Arlington National Cemetery and Robert E. Lee’s home.
Preservation officer David Maloney warned the arch would damage landscape and alter views, while the Justice Department argued congressional approval of 166-foot columns authorizes the monument.

History

Historical Context

The Height of Buildings Act, enacted by Congress on June 1 1910, reinforced the 1899 rule that capped Washington structures at 130 feet to protect key vistas. The National Capital Planning Commission’s recent 250-foot arch proposal has triggered lawsuits from Vietnam veterans, historian James McPherson and preservation officer David Maloney, who argue the project violates the Act’s intent.

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Story summary

National Capital Planning Commission staff recommended revisions to the 250-foot arch to meet the 1910 Height of Buildings Act.
Vietnam veterans and a historian sued, saying the arch would block the sightline from Lincoln Memorial to Arlington National Cemetery and Robert E. Lee’s home.
Preservation officer David Maloney warned the arch would damage landscape and alter views, while the Justice Department argued congressional approval of 166-foot columns authorizes the monument.

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