The Trump administration announced Thursday that excavation work will begin within the next two weeks on a proposed 250-foot-tall gilded memorial arch in Washington, D.C. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum described the triumphal arch as one of the Great Pieces of American Architecture befitting the most powerful capital in the world.
The structure is planned to stand between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. However, the project has drawn backlash over its size and location, with critics arguing it will disrupt historic sightlines. The administration is currently facing a lawsuit challenging the plans for the arch.
The memorial arch is one of several priority projects President Trump is pursuing to leave a lasting imprint on Washington. Other planned efforts include refurbishing the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool, building a huge new White House ballroom, and renaming and renovating the Kennedy Center. Additionally, the administration plans to rebuild a golf course in East Potomac Park, a move that could significantly reduce public access to running and biking paths.