Washington D.C., October 16, 2025
The White House is advancing plans for a monumental archway project, dubbed the ‘Arc de Trump,’ in Washington D.C. This initiative has sparked significant debates regarding its cost, design, and historical significance. Critics and supporters are voicing their opinions, with discussions centered around the potential impact on the landscape of the city and the legacy of the former president. As the project moves forward, the public remains divided over its appropriateness and relevance.
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. Unveils Plans for ‘Arc de Trump’ to Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary
Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump has announced plans for a monumental triumphal arch, dubbed the “Arc de Trump,” to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American Independence in 2026. The proposed structure is set to be located across the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial, in Memorial Circle, facing the White House. Designed to resemble Paris’s Arc de Triomphe, the arch aims to serve as a significant addition to the nation’s capital.
Project Details
The arch is envisioned to be a large stone monument featuring intricate carvings, including a wreath, two large eagles facing east, and an angel with golden wings holding a scepter. Architect Nicolas Leo Charbonneau of Harrison Design has shared renderings of the proposed structure, highlighting its grandeur and design elements. While specific costs and construction timelines remain undisclosed, surplus funds from Trump’s concurrent $200 million White House ballroom project may be utilized for this endeavor.
Context and Background
The announcement of the “Arc de Trump” follows the recent unveiling of plans for a new State Ballroom at the White House. This $200 million expansion, led by Clark Construction, is set to add a 90,000-square-foot venue with a seating capacity of approximately 650 people. Construction for the ballroom began in September 2025 and is expected to be completed before the end of President Trump’s term in 2029. The funding for this project is sourced from President Trump and private donors.
Additionally, the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), which oversees urban planning in Washington, D.C., has been involved in discussions regarding these projects. The commission’s role includes reviewing and approving construction proposals to ensure they align with the city’s planning and aesthetic standards. However, specific details about the NCPC’s involvement in the “Arc de Trump” project have not been publicly disclosed.
These developments reflect ongoing efforts to reshape and enhance the architectural landscape of Washington, D.C., as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the “Arc de Trump”?
The “Arc de Trump” is a proposed monumental triumphal arch in Washington, D.C., designed to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American Independence in 2026. It is planned to be located across the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial, in Memorial Circle, facing the White House.
Who is the architect behind the “Arc de Trump”?
The proposed arch is designed by architect Nicolas Leo Charbonneau of Harrison Design, who has shared renderings of the structure, highlighting its grandeur and design elements.
What is the relationship between the “Arc de Trump” and the White House ballroom project?
The “Arc de Trump” is a separate project from the White House ballroom expansion. However, surplus funds from the $200 million White House ballroom project may be utilized for the “Arc de Trump” endeavor. The ballroom expansion is led by Clark Construction and is expected to be completed before the end of President Trump’s term in 2029.
Has the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) approved the “Arc de Trump” project?
Specific details about the NCPC’s involvement in the “Arc de Trump” project have not been publicly disclosed. The NCPC is responsible for reviewing and approving construction proposals in Washington, D.C., but no official statements regarding this project have been made.
What is the significance of the “Arc de Trump” in the context of Washington, D.C.’s architecture?
The “Arc de Trump” is envisioned to be a significant addition to Washington, D.C.’s architectural landscape, serving as a monumental structure to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Its design is inspired by Paris’s Arc de Triomphe, aiming to enhance the city’s skyline and historical landmarks.
FAQ Schema in JSON-LD Format
Key Features of the “Arc de Trump” Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Memorial Circle, across the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial, facing the White House. |
| Design Inspiration | Resembling Paris’s Arc de Triomphe, featuring intricate carvings including a wreath, two large eagles facing east, and an angel with golden wings holding a scepter. |
| Architect | Nicolas Leo Charbonneau of Harrison Design. |
| Funding | Potential use of surplus funds from the $200 million White House ballroom project; specific costs and timelines remain undisclosed. |
| Significance | Intended to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American Independence in 2026, serving as a monumental addition to Washington, D.C.’s architectural landscape. |
