President Donald Trump announced plans to construct a pedestrian promenade connecting the Lincoln Memorial to the Potomac River, fulfilling what he described as the monument's original design vision. The project, referred to as 'the promenade,' would provide direct pedestrian access from the memorial to the river, bypassing two highways that currently obstruct the route.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Trump revealed the plan during an Oval Office event promoting coal energy, stating the promenade would 'take the Lincoln Memorial right down to the Potomac.' Interior Secretary Doug Burgum supported the initiative, noting the lack of pedestrian access on the memorial's backside and the historical intent to include the river as part of the monument's design.
Deeper Dive & Context
Historical Context
Burgum stated the plans for a river connection date back to the Civil War era, emphasizing that the current design cuts off access to the Potomac. The project would involve building pedestrian bridges over the two highways to restore the intended pathway.
Project Details
The promenade would allow visitors to walk from the Lincoln Memorial directly to the river, completing the original vision for the monument. Trump mentioned the possibility of naming the promenade after him but expressed uncertainty about the idea.
Renovation Connection
The announcement follows the recent renovation of the Lincoln Memorial's Reflecting Pool, which Trump highlighted as part of his administration's efforts to improve national landmarks.