Trump's arch may break ground without final approval. Veterans are trying to stop it
The Trump administration is moving forward with excavation for a 250-foot 'Great Triumphal Arch' near the National Mall despite lacking final federal approvals. Critics and historic preservationists argue the administration is bypassing mandated safety and environmental reviews.
Why it matters
The project raises significant questions about executive power, the integrity of federal land-use regulations, and the preservation of historic sites in the nation's capital.
The Trump administration plans to break ground on its proposed 250-foot arch near Washington, D.C.'s National Mall in the coming days, without key approvals and despite an ongoing lawsuit.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum wrote on social media Thursday that "we are preparing to start, over the next two-week period, the excavation work necessary for the Great Triumphal Arch and Military Observation Deck."
But the arch is still awaiting final approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, as well as federally mandated reviews regarding aviation safety and historic preservation.
National Trump allies vote to weaken protections for historic sites — not just in D.C. Historic preservation experts have long criticized the Trump administration for seeming to rush the arch approval process, including by moving to weaken protections for historic sites altogether . This latest development raises concerns that the White House seeks to sidestep the process, which it denies.
Also covering this story
4 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
Administration says excavation will start on Trump's arch
Trump administration to begin excavation work on Washington arch
Work on Trump-backed Triumphal Arch will start in coming weeks, Burgum says
Trump to Break Ground on Arch Before Getting Approval
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