Trump Proposes 250-Foot Triumphal Arch for D.C. Border

The so-called "Independence Arch" would rival the height of the U.S. Capitol building.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former President Donald Trump has revealed plans for a new 250-foot-tall triumphal arch to be built on the border of Washington, D.C. The proposed "Independence Arch" would tower over the nearby Lincoln Memorial and nearly match the height of the U.S. Capitol building, carrying an estimated $100 million price tag.

Why it matters

The massive arch would dramatically alter the landscape of the nation's capital, raising concerns about its impact on flight paths and the overall character of the National Mall area. Trump's plan continues his trend of making significant changes to D.C. landmarks, including the White House and Kennedy Center.

The details

According to reports, Trump wants the arch to be 250 feet tall in order to commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. The arch would be located on a roundabout just across the Potomac River from the western end of the National Mall. Its height would dwarf the nearby Lincoln Memorial and nearly match the 288-foot U.S. Capitol building. Diagrams shown at a White House dinner in October 2025 featured marble statues of eagles on top and a gold statue of Lady Liberty in the center.

  • Trump first introduced the idea of the new arch while speaking to potential ballroom donors in October 2025.
  • On February 1, 2026, Trump told reporters he'd "like it to be the biggest one of all."

The players

Donald Trump

The 79-year-old former President of the United States who is proposing the construction of the 250-foot triumphal arch.

Federal Aviation Administration

The government agency that may have concerns about the arch's impact on flight paths near Reagan National Airport.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Every time somebody rides over that beautiful bridge to the Lincoln Memorial, they literally say something is supposed be here.”

— Donald Trump (Time)

“I'd like it to be the biggest one of all.”

— Donald Trump (CNN)

What’s next

The Federal Aviation Administration will likely need to review the arch's proposed height and location to assess any potential impacts on flight paths in the area.

The takeaway

Trump's plan for a massive triumphal arch on the border of Washington, D.C. continues his trend of making bold changes to the nation's capital, raising concerns about the arch's impact on the character and functionality of the National Mall area.