Donald Trump‘s 250-foot arch could impact nearly 40 protected historic sites. The proposed plan is now facing scrutiny over the potential impact on Washington’s historic landscape. The arch project has drawn attention because of its planned size and location.
A National Park Service assessment found Donald Trump’s proposed 250-foot arch could impact nearly 40 protected historic sites
Donald Trump’s proposed arch is facing scrutiny over its impact on views of protected sites. According to Radar Online, a National Park Service assessment found that developing the structure could impact 37 historic sites. The project is planned at Memorial Circle, near Arlington National Cemetery and Arlington Memorial Bridge.
Sources said that the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, National Cathedral and Arlington House are the major sites that could be impacted.
A historic preservation officer from Virginia said in June, “These adverse effects are intentional and inherent in the design of the arch – it is intended to dominate the surrounding landscape.”
The assessment report said that the proposed monument could obstruct views of the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington House and the Eternal Flame at the Kennedy gravesite. The report also stated that the National Cathedral is nearly four miles away and could also be affected. The arch is reportedly more than twice the height of the Lincoln Memorial.
While many veterans have raised concerns about the project details, the White House defended its position, saying the project would improve the visitor experience. It said the monument would enhance the experience of visiting Arlington National Cemetery.
Reportedly, the effects could extend beyond the structure to the landscape, settings, sightlines and symbolic relationships between existing structures.
Before federal approval, a Section 106 review is required under the National Historic Preservation Act. The National Capital Planning Commission is scheduled to discuss the project on Sept. 3.
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