A new plan to keep the Reflecting Pool clean - including annual purge of 'nasty' muck

Source: CNN Politics

PUBLISHED Jul 3, 2026, 8:30 AM ET


A new, intensive plan to keep the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall clean is emerging after the Trump administration spent months trying to turn the iconic memorial sparkling blue at the behest of President Donald Trump. The Department of Interior is soliciting bids to hire a contractor for the pool’s long-term maintenance after it is restored and repaired for the second time this year, according to public documents reviewed by CNN.

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has been plagued by growing algae, green-hued water, a chipping bottom and allegations of vandalism. The Trump administration hopes those problems will be remedied with the next round of renovations after the July Fourth holiday.

The National Park Service plans to begin draining the Reflecting Pool for repairs, including any damage to the lining, after Independence Day celebrations this weekend.

The search for a new contractor to undertake daily maintenance and cleanings underscores how challenging it is to keep the pool clean – as the request for bids lays out the full scope of work needed. The pool’s disrepair has dogged successive administrations that have struggled to address leaks and murky water.

Read more: https://www.cnn.com/2026/07/03/politics/reflecting-pool-new-maintenance-plan