Trump announces he'll build Lincoln Memorial 'promenade'
Washington Examiner
Last updated: June 5, 2026
President Donald Trump announced a plan to build a pedestrian bridge connecting the Lincoln Memorial to the Potomac River, which he referred to as "the promenade." This project aims to restore a connection to the water that was originally intended but was later obstructed by the construction of roadways.
- President Trump revealed the plan, dubbed "the promenade," during an event promoting coal energy. He stated that the Lincoln Memorial's design intended for a direct connection to the Potomac, which was thwarted by the subsequent building of two highways.
- Interior Secretary Doug Burgum corroborated that plans for this pedestrian access have existed since near the end of the Civil War. He explained that visitors currently do not have easy access to the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial, despite its proximity.
- The proposed bridge would allow pedestrians to walk around the memorial, cross over the existing highways, and reach the river, thereby completing the original vision for the site.
- The White House and the Interior Department have not provided details regarding the commencement date for the construction of "the Promenade."
