Crews are draining the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool for a second time as part of a renovation project initiated by the Trump administration. The pool had been slated for completion by July 4 to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the United States, but algae growth and peeling coating have delayed the work. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, who heads the National Park Service, said the draining was planned and noted that debris from an Independence Day fireworks display may remain in the water. The administration has faced criticism, with Trump attributing the coating issues to vandalism while critics say shoddy repair work is responsible. Contractor Green Water Solutions received a $1.7 million contract to install a water‑purification system, and Atlantic Industrial Coatings was awarded $14.7 million to repaint and waterproof the pool’s concrete floor. Democratic senators and House members have launched investigations into the use of taxpayer funding for the project. The renovation is one of several capital projects the administration is pursuing in Washington, including plans to demolish the White House East Wing for a $400 million ballroom and to build a large arch linking the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, with no set completion date.