President Donald Trump has announced that repair work on the Reflecting Pool will begin immediately after inspecting the landmark from a helicopter this Sunday.
The 2,030‑foot pool, located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, has suffered repeated leaks and structural issues. A $13m renovation last month, which included a fresh coat of blue paint, failed to stop an aggressive algae bloom that has turned the water green.
Authorities say five people were arrested and five others cited for vandalism; police reports total 14, including a claim that a vandal inflicted a 250‑foot gash on the pool’s façade. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro has vowed to prosecute the perpetrators.
The pool was expected to be drained and refilled this month, but the algae bloom and paint damage threaten ongoing work. Officials are also applying hydrogen peroxide to clear the green growth, while an ecological study confirmed the algae species (Desmodesmus) is harmless to humans and wildlife.
In a Truth Social post, Trump expressed disbelief at the vandalism: "Who would do such a thing? SICK, DERANGED PEOPLE!" He only inspected the site from above and has not yet visited it by ground transport.
The incident has sparked a debate about security and maintenance of national monuments, especially as the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence approaches.
For a live view of the pool’s condition, use the interactive map linked below.
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