The cost to repair the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has risen to $13.1 million, after the Interior Department added $6.2 million to a no-bid contract late last week. The final figure far exceeds the $1.8 million originally promised by former President Donald Trump.
The Reflecting Pool, a prominent feature on the National Mall, had fallen into disrepair. The Daily Caller reported that the pool was described as being in "serious disrepair," quoting an official characterization of its condition. The New York Times first reported the contract increase, noting that the additional $6.2 million was added to the existing no-bid agreement.
The original $1.8 million estimate was announced during the Trump administration as part of infrastructure improvements at national parks. The Interior Department, now under the Biden administration, approved the additional spending without competitive bidding, bringing the total contract value to $13.1 million.
The New York Times emphasized the contrast between Trump's initial pledge and the final cost, highlighting the no-bid nature of the contract and the significant increase. The Daily Caller focused on the pool's deteriorated state, framing the higher cost as part of a necessary makeover and reporting the $13.1 million figure as newly disclosed.
The repairs are proceeding under the expanded contract. The Interior Department has not issued a public statement explaining the cost increase beyond the contract modification. The project aims to restore the pool to functional condition for visitors.
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