National Park Service Warns Trump Triumphal Arch Harms Historic Sites

The National Park Service reports that a proposed 250-foot-tall triumphal arch in Washington, championed by Donald Trump, would negatively impact dozens of historic sites. According to the agency's assessment, the structure would obstruct views from the Kennedy Gravesite and Robert E. Lee’s home, alter views of the National Cathedral, and disrupt the symbolic relationship between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.

The project is currently undergoing a Section 106 review under the National Historic Preservation Act. This review is a prerequisite for final approval by the National Capital Planning Commission, which could occur by September 3. While preservationists and veterans argue the arch would irreversibly harm the cultural landscape and the solemnity of the cemetery, the White House maintains the landmark will improve the visitor experience.

To facilitate the project, the administration is seeking to overhaul historic review regulations. The proposed changes would narrow the focus of reviews to material harm, effectively excluding the visual and atmospheric adverse effects identified in the current National Park Service assessment.