President Donald Trump has acknowledged that Washington, DC's iconic Reflecting Pool is experiencing 'real problems' following its $14.2 million renovation. Trump alleged that vandalism and chemical damage are responsible for the issues, but failed to provide evidence to support his claims.
The remarks come after the administration defended the condition of the pool despite reports of an algae bloom and peeling blue paint emerging shortly after the refurbishment was completed.
Trump highlighted his administration's work restoring landmarks across the US capital before turning to the Reflecting Pool, stating that 'We've had some real problems with Vandalism at the beautiful Reflecting Pool, which sits between The Washington Monument and The Lincoln Memorial.'
The president also referred to '86 47' being etched into a nearby stretch of grass before claiming the newly renovated pool had been deliberately damaged.
However, an algae bloom and peeling paint were reported shortly after the renovation was completed, and National Park Service employees were deployed to remove algae using skimmers and treat the water with hydrogen peroxide.
The controversy deepened when three-time US Olympian and canoeist David Hearn was arrested after entering the Reflecting Pool to examine a partially detached section of the blue liner.
