President announces immediate work
US President Donald Trump has ordered immediate repairs to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after saying he inspected the landmark from the air while returning to the White House.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said work would begin immediately to repair what he described as the “seriously vandalized” pool ahead of Independence Day celebrations.
“I just inspected it, and could only say to myself, and those gathered around me, WOW, who would do such a thing?” Trump wrote.
Algae and peeling paint continue to cause problems
The Reflecting Pool recently underwent a $13 million renovation, including a new protective coating, but has continued to experience problems with green algae growth and sections of paint peeling from the bottom.
Officials have been using chemicals, including hydrogen peroxide, to treat the algae bloom after the pool was refilled earlier this month.
Experts say the green algae currently growing in the pool is not harmful to people or wildlife, although monitoring is needed to prevent the development of more problematic species.
Police investigate alleged vandalism
Authorities say several people have been arrested or cited in connection with alleged vandalism at the monument, while further investigations remain ongoing.
Among those arrested was former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, who denied causing any damage and said he had only touched areas where the paint was already peeling.
The Reflecting Pool, which stretches more than 600 metres between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, has experienced recurring maintenance issues over the years, including leaks, algae growth and structural deterioration.
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