Trump Says Reflecting Pool Renovation Cost Will Stay Under $20 Million

Will total less than $20 million. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that he originally estimated the work at $2 million or $3 million. He said he later decided to include exterior repairs after visiting the site last week and finding the condition worse than expected.

1 million, according to CNN. Trump said the work is about three-quarters complete and must finish before July 4. Trump contrasted the current plan with earlier government estimates that he said called for four years and $350 million. He said the project began as routine maintenance and now includes painting the pool a darker blue shade.

Lawsuit Hearing U.S.

District Judge Carl Nichols heard arguments from the Cultural Landscape Foundation, which is suing to stop the work. The group argues the project violates federal requirements for public consultation and environmental review. Nichols questioned whether any harm would be permanent and noted that the pool could be repainted later.

The Justice Department told the court the project received a streamlined review and was excluded from a full environmental assessment. Alexander Kristofcak, an attorney for the foundation, said during the hearing that the government is defacing a historic site.

The judge did not issue a ruling from the bench.