The Reflecting Pool drainage in Washington DC is now set to begin after renewed claims of vandalism and ongoing problems with algae and peeling paint. The decision comes just weeks after the historic site was refilled following a major renovation project. Officials say the move is aimed at addressing water quality and structural concerns.
The issue escalated after former President Donald Trump said the Reflecting Pool had been damaged by vandals. He claimed that a long “gash” had been cut into the structure and suggested that fertilizer may have been placed in the water. His comments followed visible algae growth and reports of peeling paint inside the pool.
The pool, located between the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, has recently faced repeated maintenance challenges. It was last drained earlier this year as part of a large renovation project. After being refilled, it quickly developed green algae and surface coating issues, prompting new inspections and repairs.
The decision to proceed with Reflecting Pool drainage was confirmed after water authorities issued a permit to begin the process. The work is expected to allow contractors to inspect the bottom surface and address the reported damage. Repair teams have said they will carry out further fixes under warranty agreements connected to the recent renovation.
The Reflecting Pool, which stretches over 2,000 feet in Washington DC, has a long history of maintenance problems. Officials say it has previously suffered from leaks, pipe issues, algae buildup, and damage from natural elements. Despite repeated upgrades, maintaining water clarity and structural stability has remained a challenge.
Recent reports indicate that National Park Service staff have been using hydrogen peroxide treatments to control algae growth. However, sections of the newly applied blue coating have begun to peel and float on the surface. Visitors have reportedly noticed debris in the water, adding to concerns about the condition of the landmark.
Authorities say multiple individuals have been arrested or cited in connection with alleged tampering. According to U.S. Park Police, five people were arrested and five others received federal citations. Officials have not released full details of the incidents or confirmed the specific actions involved in each case.
The situation has also become politically sensitive. The former president has warned that anyone found guilty of damaging federal landmarks could face severe penalties, including long prison sentences. He has called for strict enforcement of laws protecting national monuments.
He also said he inspected the site during a recent helicopter flight over Washington DC. He claimed the damage was more extensive than initially reported, describing it as a long slit across the structure. These claims have not been independently verified by federal agencies.
The Reflecting Pool drainage plan has also drawn attention to the cost of recent renovation work. The project has been described as a multi million dollar effort aimed at improving water quality and appearance. However, ongoing issues have led to questions about the effectiveness of the repairs.
Officials have not confirmed how long the drainage process will take or when the pool will reopen to the public. Engineers are expected to assess the full condition of the structure once the water is removed. Further updates are expected as inspections continue.
The Reflecting Pool drainage marks another phase in the ongoing effort to restore one of Washington DC’s most visited landmarks. As investigations and repairs continue, both technical concerns and political debate surrounding the site remain unresolved.
