Algal Blooms Return to Reflecting Pool After Costly Repair

The Reflecting Pool between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument was intended to look pristine after a $14.2 million repair project ordered by President Trump. Unfortunately, algal blooms have reappeared, giving parts of the pool a green tint.

Days following the completion of a project by the Trump administration to coat the pool’s concrete floor with dark blue waterproofing material, blooms of algae surfaced, disrupting the intended appearance. Despite initial gleaming conditions after refilling last week, hot and humid weather led to algae multiplying rapidly.

The goal of the repairs was to address persistent issues, such as leaks and algal blooms, before the 250th anniversary of the United States next month. Representatives from the Interior Department, responsible for overseeing the site, have not yet commented. However, spokeswoman Katie Martin noted last week that workers were clearing out residual algae from supply lines left dormant during construction. She assured that the algae problem would be resolved swiftly.

“President Donald J. Trump is an expert builder who has fixed the Reflecting Pool for good,” said Ms. Martin regarding the refurbishment.

President Trump had criticized the pool, describing it as “filthy” and “dirty.” His renovation plans aimed to transform it into a “beautiful” site, utilizing waterproofing material in a shade labeled “American flag blue.” Two vendors were handpicked for the work under no-bid contracts due to declared urgency tied to the nation’s impending anniversary.

Virginia-based Atlantic Industrial Coatings sealed leaky joints and applied the blue waterproof coating, while Ohio-based Greenwater Services was selected to upgrade the water purification system. Atlantic Industrial Coatings completed their task on June 4, filling the pool soon after. The status of the new purification system installation remains uncertain.

On Sunday, workers from the National Park Service worked alongside Pearl Purity Water Solutions personnel to remove algae blooms from the pool. Pearl Purity Water Solutions has held a maintenance contract since 2021. Neither Greenwater Services nor Pearl Purity provided immediate comments.

Despite the ongoing algae mitigation, tourists continued to visit the iconic site. Bonnie Garvin, a teacher from Georgia, expressed indifference towards the green water, citing that it posed no major inconvenience since swimming was not involved.

Conversely, Jessica Lea, a therapist from Oregon, voiced disappointment during her first visit, noting the landmark’s lack of clarity and its swampy appearance.

The Reflecting Pool remains a subject of interest and concern. As efforts to maintain its condition continue, it draws diverse reactions from visitors seeking iconic views.