An aerial photograph taken by a passenger on a commercial flight into Washington, DC, this week highlights several ongoing renovations in the city. The photo, taken on June 16, reveals the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool plagued by algae, the damaged South Lawn of the White House after the UFC Freedom 250 fight, and a curious covering on the National Mall with the inscription ‘8647.’ This marking sparked an investigation by the U.S. Park Police.
Earlier this month, the Department of the Interior completed renovations on the Reflecting Pool. However, the work left the pool a shade of algae-green, far from the ‘American Flag Blue’ color originally chosen by President Donald Trump for the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Efforts are ongoing to address the algae issue. On June 17, workers were observed adding hydrogen peroxide to the landmark in an attempt to reduce the algae presence. As of Wednesday, parts of the pool remained green.
On the South Lawn, following the UFC event on June 14, the White House announced on June 16 that ScottsMiracle-Gro, in collaboration with the National Park Service, will take steps to restore the grass. The company has pledged $1 million towards this project.
USA TODAY is seeking further details from the National Park Service regarding repairs to the National Mall, particularly concerning the discoloration and political message.
Contributing: Bart Jansen/ USA TODAY
Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter at USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected].
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