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Sika Corporation Declines Reflecting Pool Renovation, Citing Feasibility Issues

KVIA•Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 9:27 PM•CNN Newsource

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The Sika Corporation, which previously renovated the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, turned down a recent contract due to unfeasible requirements set by the Trump administration, including a tight deadline and a specific color for the pool's bottom. The renovation, now costing $14.7 million, has faced criticism for its rapid execution and subsequent problems, including peeling materials and algae blooms. Congressman Robert Garcia has called for accountability from the contractors involved, while tourists have reported vandalism incidents at the site. The Reflecting Pool is set for further repairs around July 4, raising concerns about the quality and management of the renovation process.

Key Details: • Sika Corporation declined the contract due to feasibility concerns. • Renovation costs escalated from an initial $1.8 million to $14.7 million. • Congressman Robert Garcia is demanding answers from contractors. • The Reflecting Pool will undergo permanent repairs around July 4.

trump vandalism government-contracts reflecting-pool sika-corporation

People & Organizations

Donald TrumpRobert GarciaCultural Landscape FoundationAtlantic Industrial CoatingsLincoln Memorial Reflecting PoolDavid HearnSika Corporation

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