Can Tire Tracks Be Seen on Bottom of Lincoln Reflecting Pool? [View all]

Source: Newsweek

Published Jul 14, 2026 at 07:35 AM EDT updated Jul 14, 2026 at 09:57 AM EDT


What appear to be tire tracks have become visible on the floor of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after the landmark was drained for a second round of repairs, adding another point of intrigue to the Trump administration's troubled renovation project. As the pool is drained once again for repairs, photographs appear to show a series of parallel marks stretching across sections of the exposed pool floor.

The newly visible marks come amid continued debate over what caused damage to the recently renovated pool. President Donald Trump has repeatedly alleged that vandals slashed the pool's blue liner, prompting officials to drain the basin again to carry out repairs.


What Do the Images Show?

The photographs appear to show multiple sets of track-like impressions running across portions of the exposed bottom of the Reflecting Pool. It is not immediately clear what caused the marks. Maintenance crews, pumps, hoses and other equipment have been present around the site during the latest draining operation, and photographs from the scene have documented ongoing work by National Park Service personnel.

While some have suggested the marks resemble vehicle tracks, there is currently no public evidence indicating when they were made or whether they are connected to the repairs. The markings are likely to attract renewed attention because Trump's motorcade was driven across the drained Reflecting Pool during a highly publicized inspection of the project on May 7. Video posted by White House Communications Director Steven Cheung showed presidential vehicles traveling across the basin as Trump toured the renovation work.



Read more: https://www.newsweek.com/can-tire-tracks-be-seen-on-bottom-of-lincoln-reflecting-pool-12192582

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