UMVA has learned that just days after a massive algae bloom turned the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool a vibrant green, the newly applied 'American flag blue' paint has started to peel away, leaving the iconic landmark in a state of disrepair.
The alarming transformation of the pool's color came shortly after the completion of a $14.7million project to improve the pool, with workers hastily deploying to pour hydrogen peroxide into the water to combat the algae bloom. The sudden appearance of the algae had raised questions about the pool's maintenance and the effectiveness of the renovation.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the US Department of the Interior had previously assured the public that the water was 'crystal clear', even attributing the algae bloom to 'fake news media' hype. However, visitors to the landmark have now noticed that the new paint job is deteriorating, sparking concerns about the quality of the renovation work.
One disgruntled visitor, Robert Dale from Edwards, Colorado, expressed his disappointment, saying, 'I want my money back after seeing this. I think our resources could be used a lot better elsewhere.' He added that he believed the reflecting pool was more beautiful before the renovation, which has been part of a larger plan to upgrade the capital's landmarks.
The no-bid contract awarded for the renovation has been shrouded in controversy, with many questioning the decision-making process behind the project. As the public continues to marvel at the Lincoln Memorial, the condition of the Reflecting Pool serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in maintaining the nation's iconic landmarks.
