Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Turns Green Days After Renovation

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool turned green with algae within days of reopening after a renovation that cost more than $14 million.

Crews from the National Park Service began cleanup operations on June 16 using pumps, vacuum equipment, and cleaning stations along the pool. Workers vacuumed large patches of algae that had spread across the water surface and the newly painted bottom.

The Interior Department stated that additional fixes are planned. Crews also poured hydrogen peroxide into the pool to combat the bloom, a little over a week after the water was repainted.

” Officials aimed to complete the work before the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Additional sidewalk and stone repairs were performed around the pool. " — Sen. The renovation price rose above the initial $6 million estimate after the National Park Service expanded the project scope to meet a July deadline.

Officials said the increase reflected extra staff, materials, and extended work hours.

Shallow pools like the Reflecting Pool are prone to algae blooms due to warm temperatures, sun exposure, and nutrients from wildlife and runoff. A spokesperson said the National Park Service is applying nanobubble ozone technology along with the hydrogen peroxide treatments, which are described as safe for the environment and marine life.

Workers were photographed removing algae and debris from the pool on June 15. Officials said further maintenance will continue as anniversary events approach. Tourists continued to visit the site and take photos while crews worked nearby.