President Trump personally selected a company to repair the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, awarding the project without competitive bidding. The president stated the firm had previously worked on his private swimming pool.
The no-bid contract bypassed standard government procurement processes. Federal rules typically require agencies to seek multiple bids for large public works projects.
The reflecting pool is a prominent landmark on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. It stretches nearly 2,000 feet between the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial.
Repair work will address structural issues and water leakage. The pool has suffered from deterioration over decades of use and weather exposure.
Critics raised concerns about transparency and fairness. Government oversight groups questioned the decision to award such a contract without public competition.
Supporters of the president defended the choice. They argued the selected firm had proven expertise and could complete the work efficiently.
The restoration project is expected to take several months. The National Park Service will oversee the work to ensure compliance with safety and preservation standards.
