The federal government has awarded a $1.7 million contract to Green Water Solutions, an Ohio-based company, to install a new water cleaning system for the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. This no-bid contract was granted as part of an effort to address ongoing issues with algae and the pool's deteriorating condition. The contract was awarded under a rule for projects of 'unusual and compelling urgency' to ensure the pool is ready for the nation's 250th birthday on July 4, 2026.
Green Water Solutions, owned by John J. Cafaro, who has made significant donations to various political campaigns, including President Trump's, will implement a 'Nano Bubble' filtration system. Cafaro has a history of campaign finance violations and has previously cooperated with prosecutors in a bribery case.
The Department of the Interior cited the need for immediate action and described the Nano Bubble system as a specialized technology with limited suppliers. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers stated that the White House did not influence the contract's selection process. Cafaro has denied any conflict of interest, asserting that President Trump is unaware of his company's involvement.
In addition to the contract for the Reflecting Pool, Green Water Solutions has previously received a $1 million contract for a feasibility study related to sewage treatment in the Tijuana River. The Reflecting Pool has faced algae blooms for years, and recent reports indicate that issues have arisen with the newly installed surface, including algae and peeling sealant. The Interior Department attributed the algae bloom to residual algae from stagnant water and stated that the Nano Bubble system effectively addresses the problem.