Virginia and the District of Columbia filed a federal lawsuit Saturday, Oct. 31, seeking to stop President Trump's planned arch as his administration prepares for construction that could begin the following week. The filing brings the number of lawsuits seeking to block work on the proposed monument to three.
The arch would stand 250 feet tall on a grassy site near the bridge connecting Washington with Arlington National Cemetery across the Potomac River. At that height, it would exceed the Statue of Liberty's measurement from its base to the tip of its torch by 100 feet. The administration has said it intends to seek final approval at Thursday's National Capital Planning Commission meeting and could start construction that day, even with the lawsuits pending.
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb and Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones argue that harm to both jurisdictions would begin as soon as ground is broken. Their lawsuit describes the site as a key traffic connection within the capital's monumental core. It contends that the expected three years of construction would disrupt travel, generate pollution and stormwater runoff into the Potomac, and complicate emergency services.
The lawsuit also questions the project's effects on emergency responses that routinely require cooperation across jurisdictional boundaries. It cites the collision between a military helicopter and an airliner that killed 67 people. Both attorneys general are requesting a temporary restraining order, a step also sought by the plaintiffs in the original case: three Vietnam War veterans and an architectural historian.
U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan held a hearing Friday on the request to halt the project while that original lawsuit is resolved. She did not issue an immediate ruling but indicated that she would act promptly. Meanwhile, a 106-page plan submitted by the government Friday provided details of the proposed structure and changes to surrounding traffic patterns.
The design features a large bronze depiction of Lady Liberty with wings, holding a torch with an eternal flame. Plans also include an observation deck offering views east and west, an occupied roof and two mezzanines. Interior spaces would accommodate programs, offices, a staff lounge and a fire command center, alongside circular staircases and several elevators. Nearby roads would have traffic rerouted under the proposal.
White House spokesman Davis Ingle defended the project in statements to CBS News, presenting it as part of Trump's efforts to improve the appearance of Washington and restore landmarks. He said the arch at Memorial Circle would provide a gateway to Arlington National Cemetery for veterans, bereaved families and other Americans, while commemorating the sacrifices of American service members.
