National Park Service increases patrols at Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after liner damage

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has drawn increased law enforcement presence after the National Park Service reported damage to its liner. Court documents filed this week describe a June 9 incident in which a sharp knife or razor cut the new liner.

National Guard members and Park Police have patrolled the deck around the pool. One man was arrested after touching already-peeling paint; he said he wanted to examine the new coating and let go after a park worker told him to stop.

Background on pool access Entering the pool has long been illegal, though enforcement was previously limited to verbal directions to exit the water. The Reflecting Pool has served as a site for protests, vigils, and informal recreation, including relief from summer heat during the 1968 Poor People’s Campaign and use as an urban skating rink in winter.

Crews were observed adding fencing near the area this week. Officials attributed the fencing to preparations for July Fourth celebrations. Mobile surveillance towers have been placed at the site, and the sound of nanobubblers now accompanies increased foot patrols.