Reflecting Pool Renovation Costs Reach $15 Million

Interior Department officials told CNN on Sunday that algae in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool appeared during the refilling process and has since been removed. They said the algae was not caused by vandalism. The same officials confirmed multiple gashes in the pool coating that total about 350 feet. They rejected suggestions that vehicles driven on the surface contributed to the damage.

Fencing has been reinstalled around the pool after the coating began peeling. Officials said the pool will be drained again and the aqua-blue coating reapplied after the July 4th weekend. Costs have increased from an initial $2 million estimate to nearly $15 million. A department statement said crews are now vacuuming dead algae from the pool bottom.

Police have arrested several people, including a former Olympian, on felony vandalism or destruction of property charges. The former Olympian denies causing damage. Videos showed officers approaching individuals who placed their hands in the water during periods when fencing was removed. Officials posted images seeking public help to identify one person seen touching the water.