Overview
- A fast-tracked, largely no-bid renovation completed in early June installed a dark blue industrial liner and repainted the Reflecting Pool at a cost estimated near $14–16 million.
- Days after the pool was refilled algae bloomed and strips of the new liner floated to the surface, with contractors reporting bubbles and pinholes in the coating.
- Short-term fixes have used hydrogen peroxide dosing, nanobubble ozone machines and vacuuming to clear algae while officials plan fuller repairs after the July 4 holiday.
- Interior Secretary Doug Burgum doubled down Sunday on CNN that photographs show deliberate cuts to the liner and said multiple arrests have been made, including one charged defendant who denies the allegation.
- Preservation groups have sued over the rushed work, independent tests flagged nutrient-rich conditions and experts warn century-old circulation pipes left in place could allow problems to recur, prompting congressional oversight requests.