The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) voted on Thursday to grant preliminary approval for Donald Trump's proposed 250-foot (76-meter) triumphal arch in Washington D.C., despite widespread public opposition. The arch, which would be built on a traffic circle at the Virginia end of the Memorial Bridge, is one of several projects the Republican president is pursuing to reshape the nation's capital.
Commission vote and height law debate
Eight of the 12 commissioners voted for preliminary approval, with one against and three voting present. The commission, led by chair Will Scharf, deferred a decision on whether the Height of Buildings Act applies to the project. The staff report recommended approval but suggested changes to comply with the law, including redistributing heights among the main structure, the habitable roof, and statues. Scharf noted that the Interior Department provided a legal analysis arguing the law is not binding on the federal government.
Public opposition and concerns
Opponents testified against the arch, citing its proximity to Arlington National Cemetery and disruption of the view between the Lincoln Memorial and the cemetery, which symbolizes reunification after the Civil War. The arch would be more than twice the height of the Lincoln Memorial (99 feet) and nearly half the height of the Washington Monument (555 feet). Concerns about traffic and pedestrian safety were also raised. Some insisted Congress must approve the arch, a position Trump disputes.
Project timeline and funding
The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts approved the design in May, and the NCPC began review in June. Final approval could come in September. Trump stated the arch could be funded with unused private donations, but some public money will be used. The White House has not released a cost estimate for the arch, while construction continues on a $400 million ballroom at the White House.
