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Lincoln Reflecting Pool Drained Again Amid Ongoing Repairs by Trump Administration

KVIA•Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 7:46 AM•CNN Newsource

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The Lincoln Reflecting Pool is being drained for the second time in three months, as announced by U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. This action follows the July 4 fireworks display, which left debris in the water. The pool has faced significant issues, including algae growth and vandalism allegations, raising national concern. The Trump administration plans to use the same contractor, Atlantic Industrial Coatings, for repairs, which previously received a no-bid contract worth over $14 million. While Burgum claims the damage was caused by vandals, no evidence has been provided to support this. The timeline for the repairs remains unclear as the pool may not need to be completely emptied.

Key Details: • The pool was drained starting Sunday after July 4 festivities. • Repairs will be conducted by Atlantic Industrial Coatings, which previously received a $14 million contract. • Concerns over algae, water quality, and vandalism have been raised nationally. • Burgum suggests that repairs could be made with the pool partially drained.

trump vandalism repairs national-monuments lincoln-memorial

People & Organizations

Doug BurgumStephen MillerAtlantic Industrial CoatingsGreenwater ServicesLincoln Reflecting PoolEddie Gross

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