On November 6, a US judge temporarily halted the construction of a 250-foot arch proposed by President Donald Trump in Washington. Despite this, the White House unveiled new designs on Friday, portraying the project as a tribute to the nation’s military heritage. The project is now named the Military Triumphal Arch, and it is planned to be built near Arlington National Cemetery.
The new images show three gilded statues with wings above the words “GOLDEN AGE OF AMERICA,” written in gold. A torch held by one of the winged figures emits a flame. The White House released these renderings from the United States Triumphal Arch Foundation. The foundation’s chairman, Randy Evans, a former Trump-appointed ambassador, stated that they are not affiliated with the government.
Trump initiated several major projects in Washington, intensifying efforts following the Republican Party’s significant losses in Tuesday’s midterm elections. These projects, including the arch, have met with substantial political and legal resistance.
The attorneys general from Virginia and the District of Columbia opposed the arch, arguing it would permanently alter the skyline of the capital and its vicinity. Concerns also include potential impacts on Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. Aviation experts voiced safety concerns due to the arch’s proximity to Reagan Washington National Airport, although the Federal Aviation Administration approved the project in September.
The president described the arch earlier as part of a “military complex” intended for drones and snipers. The latest designs show it as a monument to military history. On Thursday, the National Capital Planning Commission approved the arch after hearing feedback from around 100 opponents, including Democratic lawmakers. Hours later, US District Judge Tanya Chutkan issued a 14-day restraining order, stating construction would cause traffic disruption, noise, and extensive excavation.
The Trump administration asserts that Congress authorized the arch over 100 years ago while also approving a bridge over the Potomac River. White House spokesman Davis Ingle criticized the federal ruling as coming from “an activist district court.” He expressed confidence in prevailing in court and anticipated completing the arch, which symbolizes 250 years of American achievements.
Interior Department documents submitted to the planning commission suggest construction will take two to three years.
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