Interior Secretary Doug Burgum: Reflecting Pool Repairs a ‘Small Number’
Tyunews.com – On July 5, 2026, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum appeared on ABC News’ “This Week” to address criticisms of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovations. Despite concerns over peeling paint and algae, Burgum asserted that the project had been a “big success,” emphasizing its progress despite the challenges.
Renovations Overview
The repairs to the Reflecting Pool, initiated in April, have exceeded initial budget estimates by over $4 million. This brings the total cost to more than $16 million, according to officials. The Trump administration has framed the project as a priority ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration, which commenced this weekend.
“The pool is no longer leaking 45,000 gallons daily, and the damage to the industrial liner has been reduced to less than one-tenth of one percent. That’s the only issue remaining from the vandals’ impact,” Burgum stated during the interview.
Burgum highlighted that the majority of the expenses were tied to labor and materials for the pool’s liner. He also noted the implementation of a new nanobubbler system, which he credited for eliminating algae—a persistent problem in the shallow pool under hot weather conditions.
Vandalism Claims
Burgum reiterated President Trump’s assertion that vandals were responsible for a 350-foot gash in the pool’s liner. He explained that the damage, caused by tools like a knife or box-cutter, has been repaired, and additional cameras have been installed to monitor the area.
“Multiple gashes, totaling 350 feet, have been addressed. We’ve taken steps to secure the site, as it’s part of a historic landmark that’s been targeted by a small group of individuals,” he said.
Following the July Fourth fireworks display, the Reflecting Pool was temporarily closed. Burgum claimed the water is now “crystal clear,” stating that visitors could see the improvement after the event. He expressed confidence that the remaining fixes would be completed in the coming weeks.
Criticism from Opponents
The renovation has drawn criticism from political figures, including House Oversight Committee Democrat Robert Garcia. In June, Garcia demanded further details from contractors by July 8, labeling the project as Trump’s “latest failed vanity effort.”
