White House orders multiple construction projects across Washington DC

The White House has directed several renovation and construction projects in central Washington DC. Work includes demolition of the East Wing, restoration of the reflecting pool, and fountain repairs ahead of the country's 250th anniversary. A chain-link fence has closed Lafayette Square to the public during refurbishment.

The National Park Service is restoring fountains across the city and completed work on the reflecting pool on the National Mall.

and reflecting pool projects The East Wing of the White House is being demolished to make way for a ballroom. Project costs are projected at $600 million, with half funded by taxpayers. The reflecting pool linking the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument was closed for repainting and re-coating. After completion, the water appeared green rather than the intended color.

Additional work and visitor access The Arlington Memorial Bridge is also under renovation, with columns and statues covered by tarpaulin. Two unrelated projects near the site add to construction activity. Extended areas around the White House, including parts of the Ellipse and Pennsylvania Avenue, have been closed to the public.

Lafayette Square renovations are covered by a $17 million no-bid contract awarded to Clark Construction. A 250-foot arch south of the Potomac River near Arlington National Cemetery is planned at an estimated cost of $100 million.