Reflecting Pool Liner Failure Due to Flawed Renovation

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool’s renovation faced significant setbacks due to multiple errors, according to a report obtained by The Washington Post. The inspection revealed damage at 85 locations, underlying issues with improper materials, and a rush to complete the project.

This project aimed to finish in time for the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. However, President Donald Trump’s administration attributed the damage to vandalism, though the inspection report found no evidence supporting that claim. Errors during renovation were identified as the root cause.

The extensive analysis conducted by Atlantic Coating Inspection included numerous photos and detailed the severity of the liner’s damage. It identified issues such as blisters, peeling, and cracks. Moisture and chemical fumes trapped beneath the liner led to nearly 40 locations with blisters. Peeling occurred in two dozen spots due to improper application and insufficient drying time. Workers applied the coating the day before refilling, despite needing 72 hours for proper curing.

The renovating contractor, Virginia-based Atlantic Industrial Coatings (AIC), undertook the $14.7 million project under a no-bid contract awarded by the Trump administration. This decision was based on the Interior Department’s assertion about limited qualified contractors. The contractor later offered a repair plan after the inspection.

An Aug. 14 report from AIC described most failures as cosmetic but recognized systemic issues as well. The contractor’s report did not specify the repair costs, though they pledged to cover it under warranty. Photographs accompanying the report illustrated failures such as peeled sections and blisters near expansion joints.

AIC blamed human error, suggesting workers might have misapplied primer or used insufficient amounts. This observation aligns with findings from the Aug. 6 report. Neither the contractor nor the inspection company responded to inquiries.

The Interior Department insists AIC will fix the pool and ensure the project’s quality. They also plan to address vandalism-related damage.

White House spokesperson Taylor Rodgers highlighted Trump’s efforts in refurbishing the nation’s capital. The Reflecting Pool has faced challenges since its construction, including algae and leaks. A two-year renovation in 2012 introduced a new filtration system to support the structure.

In April, Trump committed to cleaning the pool, specifying a color called “American Flag Blue” for its surface. The project began late in the month, leaving limited time for completion before “America 250” events.

Renovations started with a light blue primer and dark blue coating. These materials were specified by federal contracting documents. In June, the pool refilled, leading to an algal bloom and surface paint flaking. Trump and officials publicly blamed vandals for deterioration.

An internal National Park Service report highlighted damage at various spots. It speculated vandalism may have caused destruction but recognized contractor errors contributed. Damage repair at vandalized sites was estimated at $49,000.

Four people faced charges for vandalism, including former Olympic canoeist David Hearn. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro later dismissed these charges, citing inadequate information from the Interior Department about contractor faults.

Following July Fourth festivities, AIC conducted a comprehensive inspection to identify damage. This inspection registered 85 points of failure and noted Army Corps of Engineers testing damage.

Significant damage was noted along interior expansion joints. The inspection report critiqued the inflexible material used, pointing to potential remedies including different material layers.

Photos depicted the insufficient drying time and mixed materials. The report distills lessons, emphasizing the importance of meeting curing time guidelines and pre-testing products.

Trump affirmed errors resulted from rushing the job for a July Fourth opening, but minimal damage occurred.

AIC’s August report proposed adjustments for repairs, including alternative primers and a smaller crew for better supervision. A warning specified the voiding of the warranty under premature contact with water.

With repairs nearing completion, Trump assured the latest improvements would make the pool more resistant to vandalism. This article benefited from contributions by Maura Judkis and Luis Melgar.