Is the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool finished? Here's the latest
USA Today
Last updated: June 5, 2026
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has undergone extensive renovations, including a controversial blue sealant application. The project's completion timeline has been a point of discussion, with water now gradually returning to the pool.
- The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovations are nearing completion, with the final layer of blue sealant applied. Water has begun to flow back into the 2,028-foot pool after being drained since April. The $13.1 million project, initially estimated to take a few weeks, had a government contract end date of May 22. Court documents state the pool will begin refilling by Sunday, June 7. In addition to the pool itself, exterior elements like walking paths are also slated for cleaning and sandblasting. President Trump has repeatedly indicated a completion target of July 4, coinciding with the nation's 250th birthday celebrations. The pool requires 6.5 million gallons of water to be fully refilled.
