On Thursday, President Donald Trump’s proposal to construct a European-style arch in Washington, DC, received an initial thumbs-up from a federal commission.
According to a report from Fox 5 on Friday, the National Capital Planning Commission decided to give preliminary approval for the site and design of this structure, which is planned near the Memorial Bridge.
The article noted, “While the commission’s staff recommended this preliminary approval, they also called for changes to align the arch with the Height of Buildings Act.” They proposed adjustments that included altering the height distribution among the main body, the habitable roof intended for an observation deck, and the statues set to crown the structure.
Nevertheless, the commissioners are still in discussion about whether the law in question should apply.
ABC News relayed that the final vote could occur in September when the commission is scheduled to reconvene.
While House staff secretary, Will Scharf, who is also the commission’s chair, said, “I think commemorating America’s 250th anniversary is important. I think that the proposed arch is a fitting commemoration of 250 years.”
In early April, Trump announced his administration filed the presentation and plans to the Commission of Fine Arts for what he described as “the GREATEST and MOST BEAUTIFUL Triumphal Arch, anywhere in the World.”
“This will be a wonderful addition to the Washington D.C. area for all Americans to enjoy for many decades to come!” he added:
The proposed arch may be taller than the Lincoln Memorial and will resemble the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France, according to – News.
Earlier this year, Trump told reporters he did not know the exact height but said, “It’s just appropriate for the site. We’re setting up a committee and the committee is going to be going over it, but it’ll be substantial. I’d like it to be the biggest one of all. We’re the biggest, most powerful nation. I’d like it to be the biggest one of all.”
The news about the initial approval came as the president has worked to revitalize the nation’s capital and clean up crime plaguing the area. In doing so, Trump earned praised even from some Democrats who praised his construction and landscaping efforts that have polished and beautified the area for citizens and visitors.