President Trump announced Sunday he agreed to convert plans for a massive triumphal arch in Washington, D.C. into a military complex, posting the decision on Truth Social.
The facility will "house, store, and have the rapid ability to use large numbers of drones, plus Snipers, on both the roof and plaza areas," Trump said. It will also hold "large quantities of sniper ammunition in storage."
Trump said the change came "at the strong request of the United States Military, and for National Security purposes."
The 250-foot-tall arch was planned for Receptive Circle adjoining the Arlington Memorial Bridge, across the Potomac River from Washington near Arlington National Cemetery. Original designs called for the structure to be clad in granite, topped with three golden statues, and include an observation deck. Work was expected to begin this month.
Trump asserted the new facility would be one of a kind globally and noted that Washington is the only major world capital without a triumphal arch. The administration previously stated the monument would recognize the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence signing.
The project has faced criticism over its height and potential interference with sightlines between major D.C. monuments and Arlington National Cemetery. Its proximity to Ronald Reagan Washington International Airport also raised questions among Democratic lawmakers, who warned it would complicate an already congested airspace.
The Federal Aviation Administration determined Friday that the structure poses no hazard to airport operations.
