Reflecting Pool’s Makeover Faces Challenges

As National Park Service crews address the algae issue that turned the Reflecting Pool’s waters green, a new problem has emerged: peeling blue coating. Efforts to clean the algae are met with challenges as large sections of the new coating in the Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial come off, revealing the original concrete basin.

The renovation was recently completed to reseal and paint the century-old pool’s concrete basin. It stretches between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial and was finished for the country’s 250th birthday, as demanded by President Trump. However, the project has faced ongoing issues since its completion.

The Interior Department claimed this week on social media that workers have killed the algae growth exacerbated by heat and humidity. They shared photos showing the Washington Monument reflected in clear, deep blue waters, attempting to counter criticism. Experts argue that the water won’t look blue until deeper issues are resolved.

Despite the cleaning efforts, loose algae remained on Friday afternoon, along with noticeable gaps in the new coating. One such gap was the size of a park bench. Beneath it, the original basin could be seen.

On-site, Alex Hobe, 52, observed the pool’s condition. While making food deliveries nearby, he stopped to check the renovations. Finding a paint chip in the water, he retrieved it out of curiosity, noting its rough texture.