Trump’s plan for a triumphal arch in the nation’s capital is getting another review

The plans for President Donald Trump’s proposed skyline-altering arch in Washington, D.C. are facing another round of review by the National Capital Planning Commission. The federal agency’s staff has recommended revisions to the project before it can proceed.

The proposed 250-foot arch has sparked controversy due to its potential impact on the city’s iconic skyline. The staff report suggests that the design should be adjusted to comply with federal height restrictions in downtown Washington. While the staff recommends approval of the preliminary plans, they emphasize the need for modifications to meet regulatory requirements.

The staff report highlights the need for redistributing the height of the arch to comply with the Height of Buildings Act. Despite the recommended changes, the arch, complete with a public observation deck and gilded statues, would still reach the desired 250-foot height.

In addition to height considerations, the staff is also calling for further information on traffic implications and the proposed granite exterior of the arch. The project’s location on a traffic circle near the Memorial Bridge adds another layer of complexity to the approval process.

The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts previously approved the design in May, but the National Capital Planning Commission’s review process is ongoing. Despite opposition citing concerns about the arch’s size and impact on historic views, the project has garnered support from Trump’s allies on the commission.

A group of veterans and a historian have filed a lawsuit to block the arch construction, citing concerns about disruptions to sightlines. The proposed arch would be significantly taller than the Lincoln Memorial and rival the height of the Washington Monument.

While Trump initially suggested that private funds could cover the cost of the arch, it appears that public money will also be used for the project. The exact cost remains undisclosed by the White House.

Overall, the future of Trump’s ambitious arch project remains uncertain as it navigates the complex web of regulatory approvals and public scrutiny. The outcome of the National Capital Planning Commission’s review will determine the next steps for this controversial addition to Washington, D.C.’s skyline.