Construction crews began applying a bright blue coating to the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool Monday morning, transforming the iconic water feature as part of President Trump’s broader plan to alter Washington D.C.’s appearance.
The renovation involves changing the pool’s surface to what officials describe as “American flag blue,” though the resulting color resembles that of a typical swimming pool rather than the traditional darker shade.
The reflecting pool project represents just one element of multiple physical modifications the Trump administration has announced for the nation’s capital. Workers were observed Monday applying the new blue paint to sections of the historic water feature.
The dramatic color change has generated divided opinions among D.C. residents and tourists who frequent the National Mall area. Some view the alteration as an unnecessary departure from the memorial’s traditional appearance, while others support the administration’s vision for updating federal landmarks.
The reflecting pool, which stretches between the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, has served as a backdrop for countless historic moments and attracts millions of visitors annually to the National Mall.
