Overview
- A recently resealed and dark-blue coated Reflecting Pool developed a vivid algae bloom and visible coating defects days after it was refilled, prompting public mockery on The Daily Show.
- Independent testing reported elevated phosphate levels that favor algal growth, and photographs showed peeling sealant and detached liner strips at the pool basin.
- One contractor involved won the job through an expedited no-bid award and is owned by a trust run by Republican donor John Cafaro, a tie Jon Stewart and news clips emphasized.
- Park crews have deployed short-term treatments such as nanobubble ozone systems, peroxide dosing and manual removal but the century-old buried circulation pipes that circulate water are not yet replaced.
- The episode has widened legal and political scrutiny: preservation groups are suing over the coating, costs and contracting have drawn oversight, and officials say pipe replacement is planned for the fall.