On Friday, the Trump administration unveiled new designs for a proposed triumphal arch intended for Memorial Circle, situated at the base of the Arlington Memorial Bridge.
This initiative, part of President Donald Trump’s efforts to solidify his legacy during his second term, features an impressive arch that would rise to 250 feet. It is designed to include a 60-foot golden statue of Lady Liberty and offer a viewing platform. The top of the arch would display the inscription “One Nation Under God,” as per the latest designs from Harrison Design.
The design proposal has been submitted to the Commission of Fine Arts (CFA), which is scheduled to convene on April 16 to review the plans.
Last year, Trump dismissed all six members of the CFA and appointed loyalists in their place. This commission is one of two authorities responsible for approving his proposed White House ballroom. Although the CFA gave its approval for that project in February, construction was halted by a federal judge just weeks later. Notably, Trump had already demolished the historic East Wing to clear space for the new ballroom.
Additionally, the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), led by a former lawyer for Trump, also endorsed the arch project shortly after. However, the future of this construction remains uncertain due to the district court’s ruling.
Davis Ingle, a spokesperson for the White House, expressed the administration’s belief that the arch will become “one of the most iconic landmarks not only in Washington D.C. but around the globe.” He emphasized that the arch’s location, in proximity to Arlington National Cemetery, would serve as “a visual reminder of the noble sacrifices made by countless American heroes over our 250-year history, allowing us to enjoy our freedoms today.”
A White House representative informed the Guardian that the estimated cost of the triumphal arch is still being assessed and will be disclosed soon. The administration anticipates funding for the project will come from a blend of public and private sources, according to the official.
