President Donald Trump is moving ahead with plans for a huge 250-foot-tall arch called the “Independence Arch for America 250.” The White House says this project will become one of the world’s most famous landmarks. However, critics are worried the massive structure will overshadow Washington D.C.’s most important sites, including the Lincoln Memorial.
According to Fox News, the size of this proposed arch is causing major concern. Trump wants it to reach as high as 250 feet. To put that in perspective, the White House is only about 70 feet tall, and the Lincoln Memorial stands at roughly 100 feet. If built at that height, the arch would tower over everything nearby and dramatically change the skyline near Arlington Memorial Bridge.
The White House is defending the proposal as a key part of Trump’s legacy and vision for the nation’s 250th anniversary. White House spokesman Davis Ingle said, “The Arch is going to be one of the most iconic landmarks not only in Washington, D.C., but throughout the world.”
The massive arch raises serious concerns about preserving Washington’s historic character
He added, “President Trump’s bold vision will be imprinted upon the fabric of America and be felt by generations to come. His successes will continue to give the greatest Nation on earth, America, the glory it deserves.”
This push is part of Trump’s larger goal to “make D.C. beautiful again” by bringing back classical design to the capital. The president has been heavily involved in shaping the design himself, often showing scale models at White House events. On October 15, a model of the proposed arch was visible on the Resolute Desk during an East Room function.
The designs are inspired by classical European buildings, like the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris. On January 23, Trump shared multiple drawings of the arch on his Truth Social account. These images, which the president has jokingly called the “Arc de Trump,” show wide central openings, massive columns, and detailed decorations. While Trump focuses on this monument project, his administration faces other challenges, including how his trade policies affect tourism.
Trump has been talking about the idea since late last year, saying construction could start very soon. Though the project hasn’t begun yet, he told reporters during a phone call from Mar-a-Lago that he expects construction to begin within the next two months. He also said the arch is very popular. “It’ll be great. Everyone loves it,” he said, adding, “They love the ballroom too. But they love the Triumphal Arch.”
The monument will be funded privately, using leftover donations from the White House ballroom construction project. This means the project won’t immediately use taxpayer money. The president has made several public statements recently, including his comments on a nurse’s viral video.
However, many important details are still unknown. There’s no information yet on the exact cost, the final approval process, or the precise location. Architects and historians have serious concerns about placing such a large structure near Memorial Circle. They say the size could harm historic views and change the character of that important area.
Published: Feb 1, 2026 04:45 pm