The National Park Service (NPS) has indicated that the proposed 250-foot 'triumphal arch' in Washington, D.C., could adversely affect nearly 40 landmarks in the area. These landmarks include significant sites such as the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Washington Monument. The NPS's findings were part of a public comment solicitation as required by the Section 106 process under the National Historic Preservation Act, which is essential for the project to receive final approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, potentially in early September.
Critics of the project have raised concerns that the viewing deck of the arch could disrupt military funerals and alter the visual connection between the Lincoln Memorial and the home of Confederate general Robert E. Lee. Mical Durak, a principal planner for Arlington County, expressed in a letter to the NPS that the arch's scale is inappropriate for its historic context and would negatively impact the unity conveyed by the Arlington Memorial Bridge and Memorial Avenue.
Virginia's state historic preservation officer, Roger W. Kirchen, noted in a letter that the design of the arch is intended to dominate the surrounding landscape. An Interior Department spokesperson stated that the project aims to celebrate American achievements and beautify the capital in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The White House has described the arch as a potential iconic landmark that would enhance the visitor experience at Arlington National Cemetery.
However, critics argue that the project disrupts the planned skyline of Washington. A group of Vietnam War veterans has filed a lawsuit to halt construction, which is expected to take over a year. Earlier this month, the National Capital Planning Commission, led by a Trump ally, granted preliminary approval for the project, while the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts approved the design despite public opposition. The NPS is tasked with minimizing adverse impacts from such projects, but the Trump administration has not shown interest in altering the arch's design or location.