President Donald Trump's administration has awarded a $6.9 million no-bid contract to paint the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool blue, sparking criticism over the selection of a company with ties to the president. Atlantic Industrial Coatings, based in New Canton, Virginia, was given the contract on 3 April, despite having no previous federal contracts, according to The New York Times. The company previously renovated a swimming pool at Trump's Virginia golf course.
The reflecting pool, built in 1922, has long struggled with algae growth and leaks. The Obama administration spent over $35 million on fixes, while the Biden administration opted for annual draining and refilling. The pool leaks 16 million gallons of water each year, costing taxpayers through the National Park Service.
Trump has made the pool's appearance a personal priority, stating in April, 'You're going to end up with a beautiful, beautiful reflecting pool.' He hinted at hiring a contact, saying, 'I have a guy who's unbelievable at doing swimming pools.' Trump initially suggested a turquoise colour but settled on 'American-flag blue' as recommended by the contractor.
The contract was awarded using a federal exemption meant to avoid 'serious injury, financial or other, to the government,' bypassing competitive bidding. A White House spokesperson said the project is being completed at 'Trump speed' ahead of the US's 250th anniversary celebrations in 2026.
Critics have raised concerns about transparency and favouritism. Tim Whitehouse of Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility told the Times that the project has 'become a secretive project where the friends and business associates of the president are being rewarded with no public scrutiny.' Experts also doubt painting will solve the pool's underlying filtration issues, with Aquatic Council chair Tim Auerhahn noting, 'Painting is not going to solve that problem.'
