Key facts
- The Reflecting Pool's liner, intended to be 'American flag blue,' now appears grayer.
- The renovation project's cost has increased significantly from initial estimates.
- Issues like peeling coating and algae blooms plagued the pool shortly after its completion.
- A former Olympic canoeist faces charges for allegedly damaging the pool liner.
The Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial has undergone renovations, with its bottom surface lined with a protective coating that President Donald Trump described as 'American flag blue.' However, upon draining the pool, the liner's color has noticeably faded to a grayer shade. This development occurs amidst a troubled renovation project that has seen costs escalate significantly from the initial $1.5 million estimate to over $16 million by June. The project also faced issues shortly after its completion, including an algae bloom and peeling coating, which Trump attributed to vandalism while critics pointed to shoddy workmanship. The National Park Service reported an incident on June 9 where the pool's liner was allegedly cut. Former Olympic canoeist David Hearn has pleaded not guilty to charges of deliberately damaging the liner, with his defense arguing he is being scapegoated. At least three other individuals have also pleaded not guilty to similar misdemeanor charges related to alleged damage to the pool's coating.