Trump's 250ft arch plan passes first major hurdle in Washington
The US National Capital Planning Commission approved preliminary plans for Donald Trump's proposed 250ft arch, but deferred a decision on applying height restrictions, despite strong public opposition. Critics say the arch would disrupt the historic vista between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
Donald Trump's ambitious plan to erect a 250-foot (76-meter) arch in the nation's capital cleared a significant procedural hurdle Thursday when the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) voted to approve preliminary site and building plans. However, the commission postponed a ruling on whether the Height of Buildings Act applies to the project.
The arch, which the Republican president wants to build on a traffic circle at the Virginia end of the Memorial Bridge, received initial approval on an 8-1 vote, with three commissioners abstaining. Commission Chair Will Scharf described it as "a complex project" before the vote.
Height law debate
Staff had recommended approval contingent on modifications to comply with the Height of Buildings Act, such as redistributing height among the main structure, the roof observation deck, and the statues. But Scharf moved to continue deliberations on the law's applicability, citing a legal analysis from the Interior Department—which oversees the federal land for the arch—arguing that the law "is not binding on the federal government."
Public outcry
Commissioners heard from dozens of people who had registered to testify, many opposing the arch. Critics contend it is too large and would mar the carefully preserved view between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, intended to symbolize reunification after the Civil War.
At 250 feet, the arch would be more than twice the height of the Lincoln Memorial (99 feet) and nearly half the height of the Washington Monument (about 555 feet). Concerns over traffic and pedestrian safety were also raised.
Broader context
The arch is one of several Trump projects reshaping parts of Washington. Meanwhile, construction continues on a $400 million ballroom at the White House. Trump had said the arch could be funded with leftover money from corporate and donor contributions, but public funds are now being used for both projects. The White House has not released a cost estimate for the arch.
The US Commission of Fine Arts approved the arch's design in May. The NCPC's final decision is expected at its September meeting.
