Photo: SAUL LOEB / AFP / Getty Images
A federal judge has temporarily blocked construction on President Donald Trump's proposed triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery. U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan issued a 14-day temporary restraining order late Thursday (November 5), following an 8-4 approval vote by the National Capital Planning Commission, as reported by The Associated Press.
The proposed 250-foot arch, inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, has been a key project for Trump. The structure is intended to attract visitors crossing Memorial Bridge from Arlington National Cemetery to Washington, D.C. However, the project has faced opposition from the state of Virginia, the D.C. government, and a group of veterans who have filed lawsuits to stop its construction.
The lawsuits argue that the project lacks necessary congressional authorization and could negatively impact local communities and historic sites. The plaintiffs include three veterans and a retired architectural historian, who have expressed concerns about the project's potential to damage views of the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
The National Park Service had indicated plans to begin construction as early as November 5, pending final approvals. However, Judge Chutkan's order halts any construction activities for at least two weeks, allowing time for further legal proceedings.
The arch has also drawn criticism for its proposed military features, including the potential to house drones and snipers. Despite these controversies, UNN reports that the National Capital Planning Commission had previously approved the construction site and preliminary plans.
The legal challenges are ongoing, with Judge Chutkan ordering both sides to meet and file a briefing schedule by noon Friday (November 6).