US President Donald Trump is one step closer to his proposed triumphal arch in Washington. The federal design commission approved revised plans for the monument on Thursday, keeping it at 250 feet tall but removing an eight-foot base and four gold lion statues.
The arch, inspired by Arc de Triomphe, is planned near Arlington National Cemetery to mark America’s 250th anniversary. Trump praised the project as “beautiful,” but the proposal has faced criticism from preservation groups, historians, and public figures.
Safety concerns have also been raised due to its proximity to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The design will use granite instead of marble for durability reasons. Approval by the National Capital Planning Commission is still required before construction can begin.