Overview
- The Cultural Landscape Foundation filed suit Monday seeking a preliminary injunction to stop the ongoing repainting of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
- Federal records disclosed Friday show the Interior Department lifted the no-bid contract to $13.1 million from $6.9 million, far above the $1.8 million Trump touted.
- The work order directs Atlantic Industrial Coatings to repair leaking joints, waterproof the basin, and paint the bottom a shade called “American Flag Blue.”
- Preservationists say the pool’s original dark gray basin is a character-defining feature protected by federal review rules, while Interior argues the blue will improve reflections and visitor experience before the 250th.
- The case is before Judge Carl Nichols, who asked the parties whether to hold an emergency hearing on halting the work.