The reflecting pool at the Lincoln Memorial turned green with algae this week, shortly after a renovation ordered by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The incident has drawn scrutiny because the project was specifically intended to change the pool's appearance to a color described as “American-flag blue.” The rapid onset of algae suggests a failure in the water-treatment process following the expensive overhaul.
The pool, which stretches nearly 600 meters [3], is located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. Reports said the water shifted to a green hue approximately one week after the renovation was completed [2].
There are conflicting reports regarding the total cost of the project. Some sources said the renovation cost approximately $14 million [1], while another report said the cost was approximately $2 million [4].
The green discoloration is attributed to algal growth, which typically occurs when water-treatment systems fail to maintain chemical balances, or filtration [1]. This biological bloom has obscured the intended blue aesthetic of the basin.
The project was ordered by Trump to refresh the historic site's visual appeal. However, the transition from the desired blue to a fluorescent green has led to public criticism of the project's execution and cost.
“The reflecting pool at the Lincoln Memorial turned green with algae this week”
The failure of the reflecting pool's water treatment highlights the technical challenges of maintaining large-scale artificial bodies of water in urban environments. When high-profile aesthetic changes are paired with significant public spending, technical malfunctions often translate into political liabilities regarding government competence and fiscal stewardship.
