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President Donald Trump is pushing an ambitious plan for a massive triumphal arch overlooking the Potomac River, a proposed monument that would rise about 250 feet and become one of the tallest structures in Washington, D.C., according to a report by The Washington Post.
The structure, referred to as the Independence Arch, would stand far taller than many of the capital’s most recognizable landmarks. The White House is about 70 feet tall, while the Lincoln Memorial is roughly 100 feet tall. At 250 feet, the proposed arch would eclipse both.
President Trump has become increasingly drawn to the idea as part of preparations for celebrations marking the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the Post reported.
The president has discussed placing the arch on a small parcel of land between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery known as Memorial Circle. The site is managed by the National Park Service.
President Trump has previously weighed smaller versions of the monument, including designs measuring 165 feet and 123 feet, which he shared at a private dinner last year. But he has shown a preference for the tallest version, arguing that its scale would be better suited to the anniversary and leave a lasting impression.
Trump has cited Paris’ Arc de Triomphe as an inspiration, though he has said an American version should be significantly larger. The French landmark stands about 164 feet tall. The world’s largest arch, located in Mexico City, is approximately 220 feet high.
In December, Trump said he hoped construction could begin within two months, though no formal plans have yet been submitted for federal review.
White House spokesman Davis Ingle told the Post that the project could become a defining symbol.
“The arch would become one of the most iconic landmarks not only in Washington, D.C., but throughout the world,” Ingle said.
“President Trump’s bold vision will be imprinted upon the fabric of America and be felt by generations to come.”
Trump has recently shared images on Truth Social of several potential designs, including versions with gold accents, a stylistic hallmark of his past real estate projects. Administration officials said the design remains a work in progress.
