Reflecting Pool's 'American flag blue' liner fades to gray amid repair disputes

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool’s newly installed “American flag blue” liner has faded noticeably to gray after being drained for repairs, highlighting the troubled $16 million renovation championed by President Donald Trump.

What happened

The pool was drained in mid-July after a series of setbacks. The protective coating, which Trump called “American flag blue,” now appears grayer than when it was refilled in early June Source: AP. The project’s cost ballooned from an initial estimate of $1.5 million to over $16 million by June Source: The Guardian. Within days of completion, the water was beset by an algae bloom and pieces of the new coating peeled off.

Vandalism dispute

Trump has repeatedly blamed vandals for the damage, claiming on Truth Social that “slashes were 300 yards long” Source: CNN. However, critics allege the peeling is due to shoddy repair work Source: The Guardian. Four individuals have been charged with vandalism, including former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, who pleaded not guilty Source: AP. All have maintained their innocence, with Hearn’s attorneys calling the case an abuse of prosecutorial power.

What’s next

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said the plan is to “repair the vandalism that was done” and refill the pool Source: AP. The administration faces ongoing scrutiny over the project’s management and cost overruns.