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Reflecting Pool liner cut with sharp knife or razor, National Park Service says

June 26, 2026

The National Park Service has confirmed that the liner of Washington DC's Reflecting Pool was intentionally damaged with a sharp knife or razor in early June, according to a court filing by deputy director Frank Lands. The damage occurred after a two-month, multi-million dollar renovation project that included installing a waterproof polyurea liner, which President Trump had requested be completed before America's 250th anniversary. Following the refilling of the pool, it experienced algae blooms and problems with the deep blue paint applied to its bottom.

Who is affected

  • The National Park Service
  • US Park Police
  • President Donald Trump and his administration
  • A nonprofit organization that filed a lawsuit to stop work on the site
  • Ten people arrested or cited for vandalism (five arrested, five issued federal citations)
  • Visitors to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

What action is being taken

  • The National Park Service is planning to drain the pool after Independence Day (July 4th) celebrations to conduct repairs and assess damage to the lining
  • A lawsuit is ongoing, filed by a nonprofit organization seeking to stop the Trump administration's work on the site

Why it matters

  • The Reflecting Pool is an iconic national monument connecting the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, symbolizing American heritage as the country approaches its 250th anniversary. The vandalism undermines a multi-million dollar rehabilitation effort intended to address long-standing infrastructure problems including leaks, structural deterioration, and algae growth that have plagued the pool since it was built in the 1920s. The incident has become politically significant as it involves claims made by President Trump and raises questions about security and maintenance of important national landmarks.

What's next

  • The National Park Service will drain the pool after Independence Day celebrations on July 4th to conduct repairs, including assessments and repairing any damage to the lining

Read full article from source: BBC

Reflecting Pool liner cut with sharp knife or razor, National Park Service says