Washington, D.C.: US President Donald Trump has announced plans to turn his proposed 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery into a “top-grade Military Complex.”
Trump said on Sunday that he agreed to a request from the US military to redesign the planned structure for military purposes. In a post on Truth Social, he said the facility would be equipped to store and rapidly deploy large numbers of drones, while also accommodating snipers on the roof and plaza areas, along with large quantities of sniper ammunition.
The arch, planned at the traffic circle adjoining Arlington Memorial Bridge, was initially proposed to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The project has faced criticism, legal challenges and concerns from preservationists over its potential impact on views of major Washington monuments.
Aviation experts had also raised safety concerns because of its proximity to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. However, the Federal Aviation Administration said last week that the 250-foot structure would not pose a hazard to aircraft, while requiring an “eternal flame” on top for visibility.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said on September 4 that construction would soon begin.
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