The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., turned dark green due to algae growth this week following a multi-million-dollar renovation.
The incident has drawn criticism because the renovation was specifically intended to ensure the water appeared “American flag blue.” The sudden discoloration occurred shortly after the project's completion, undermining the visual goal of the upgrade.
Reports on the final cost of the renovation vary. Some sources cite the price at $14 million [1], while others report it as $14.2 million [2] or as high as $20 million [3]. The project involved eight weeks of construction.
An Interior Department spokesperson said the algae was "residual" and from supply lines that were dormant during those eight weeks of construction [4]. Other reports indicate that officials may have attempted to treat the water with hydrogen peroxide [5]. A National Park Service spokesperson said officials are turning to drastic measures [5].
Visitors to the National Mall expressed disappointment upon seeing the water. One visitor said to NBC News, "It looks like a swamp" [6]. The pool is one of the most visited landmarks in the U.S. capital, serving as a backdrop for numerous historic events, and protests.
The National Park Service has not provided a specific timeline for when the water will return to its intended blue color, though they continue to address the algae proliferation.
“"It looks like a swamp."”
The rapid return of algae to the Reflecting Pool suggests a failure in the post-construction flushing or filtration process. Because the project's primary objective was an aesthetic shift to 'American flag blue,' the current state of the water represents a significant public relations setback for the National Park Service and the administration overseeing the project.
