Donald Trump’s plan to construct a 250-foot triumphal arch in Washington, D.C., received preliminary approval on July 9, 2026, from the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), a federal agency with members appointed by Trump. The arch, intended to commemorate America's 250th anniversary, is planned for Memorial Circle near Arlington National Cemetery at the Virginia end of the Memorial Bridge.

Despite hours of public testimony opposing the project, the NCPC voted to approve preliminary site and building plans. The commission deferred a final decision on whether the Height of Buildings Act, a federal law limiting building heights in the capital, applies to the project. Staff had recommended approval contingent on revisions to ensure compliance with the law, including redistributing heights among the arch’s main structure, observation deck, and statues.

Will Scharf, Trump’s White House staff secretary and NCPC chair, said the Department of the Interior provided a legal analysis arguing the Height of Buildings Act is not binding on the federal government. Scharf anticipates a "vigorous debate" on this issue as the commission moves forward. He also stated, "I think commemorating America's 250th anniversary is important," and described the arch as a "fitting commemoration of 250 years."

Opponents, including Linsay Burnett, a former combat photographer and public affairs sergeant in Iraq, criticized the project for its size and impact. Burnett said, "I come to you as the person this arch claims to honor, and the person raised to protect what it would destroy. It betrays both." She expressed concern over construction noise disrupting Arlington National Cemetery, where families would be lowering loved ones to the sound of pile drivers for up to three years.

The National Park Service, according to Department of the Interior planning documents, intends to conduct construction 20 hours per day over the next two to three years. Trump had previously stated that the arch could be funded using unused donations raised for a new $400 million White House ballroom.

A final vote on the arch’s approval is expected at the NCPC’s next meeting in September 2026.

Sources