Federal construction projects underway across Washington, DC

Federal agencies have begun dozens of construction and repair projects on government property in Washington, DC. The work covers the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a new White House ballroom, and maintenance of fountains and statues on federal land.

The projects could cost taxpayers more than $1 billion, according to The New York Times. Some sites have shown delays, including peeling paint and algae growth at the Reflecting Pool.

Project status and funding The Interior Department reopened a fountain outside Union Station last month after it had been dry for nearly two decades. Officials said the Reflecting Pool work addresses long-standing maintenance needs. Sen. , said the contracts raise questions about the use of federal funds.

He cited reporting that linked a Republican donor to a firm awarded a no-bid contract for the Reflecting Pool. "It's not just an excessive use [of federal funds], but it's obviously a way to pay off his friends if you look at the contractor here. This has been a disaster from start to finish," Sen.

Van Hollen said. Sen. , called the work a "perfectly appropriate use" of taxpayer money for maintaining historic federal assets. Sen. , noted that renovations on House and Senate buildings have been underway for ten years.

Oversight requests Democrats in the Senate and House have asked the administration and contractors for more information on the Reflecting Pool project. Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., suggested officials allowed algae to grow to create an ecosystem.