Even before a relevant federal body has approved the project, President Trump has begun work on his approximately 76-meter-high Grand Arch of Triumph, located near Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced on Thursday that the excavation work is scheduled to begin within the next two weeks.
In a social media post, Burgum wrote: “After more than 125 years of waiting, we are preparing to begin excavation work for the Grand Arch of Triumph within the next two weeks.” He added that the structure will be among the most significant works of American architecture, honoring the history and importance of Arlington Cemetery and befitting the most powerful capital city in the world.
This rapid move fits a recurring pattern of Trump’s actions: He has previously made sweeping changes to historic buildings in Washington, D.C., without first obtaining approval from Congress or other relevant authorities. The announcement comes just days after the Supreme Court cleared the way for the administration to proceed with the construction of a ballroom on the site of the demolished east wing.
Historic preservation groups that had challenged other presidential construction projects had feared that this very ruling could embolden him to simply ignore other pending lawsuits.
The designs are by Harrison Design. They depict a bright, neoclassical arch totaling 250 feet (approximately 76 meters) in height: the stone arch itself is about 166 feet, topped by a gilded winged figure of Liberty holding a torch, and two golden eagles. Inscriptions such as “One Nation Under God” and “Liberty and Justice for All” are found on the sides. Earlier versions also featured golden lions at the base.
Notice:
The renderings were submitted to the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts in April 2026. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum recently announced that excavation work will begin within the next two weeks. Therefore, there is no finished photograph yet – only these visualizations and site plans.
