Trump's proposed Washington arch to become sniper, drone facility

Ben Berkowitz

Karoline Leavitt holding a photo of a rendering of the proposed DC triumphal arch. — A rendering of the proposed triumphal arch. Photo: Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

President Trump said Sunday morning his proposed "triumphal arch" in Washington, D.C., will become a dual-use facility housing snipers, drones and ammunition storage.

Why it matters: The president is now framing construction of the arch as a national security issue — much like he did with the East Wing ballroom/military complex at the White House.

What they're saying: "At the strong request of the United States Military, and for National Security purposes, I have agreed to convert the magnificent Triumphal Arch, planned since the Civil War Era many years ago, at the Receptive Circle adjoining the Arlington Memorial Bridge, into a top grade Military Complex/Triumphal Arch, to house, store, and have the rapid ability to use large numbers of drones, plus Snipers, on both the roof and plaza areas, and additionally have and hold large quantities of sniper ammunition in storage," Trump posted on Truth Social.

Catch up quick: The proposed 250-foot arch would be one of the largest such monuments in the world, sparking concerns that it could interfere with other national symbols, block views and even complicate landings for pilots at nearby airports.

The New York Times reported this week that the National Park Service is rushing through a final review of the project ahead of a likely approval in November.
The NPS's own August report indicated the construction of the arch would have adverse effects on many nearby monuments and landmarks.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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Trump's proposed Washington arch to become sniper, drone facility

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