Trump Arch Faces Legal Challenge From Virginia as Construction Could Begin Soon

Two jurisdictions join legal fight

Washington Attorney General Brian Schwalb and Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones filed the latest lawsuit in federal court Saturday. They are seeking a temporary restraining order to delay construction.

The lawsuit says a three-year building period could snarl traffic between the jurisdictions, create pollution and stormwater runoff in the Potomac, and interfere with emergency services. It also raises concerns about emergency response in a region where agencies often work together, citing the January 2025 collision that killed 67 people.

Judge weighs an earlier request

The new filing brings the number of lawsuits seeking to stop potential work to three. The administration has said construction could begin as early as next week.

Plans outline a large monument

A government filing submitted Friday included a 106-page plan for a structure more than 12 stories high. The proposed 250-foot arch would be 100 feet taller than the Statue of Liberty from its base to the top of its torch.

The design includes a large bronze statue of Lady Liberty with wings and a torch bearing an eternal flame, as well as an observation deck, an occupied roof and two mezzanines. Interior spaces would include program rooms, offices, a staff lounge, circular staircases, elevators and a fire command center.

Approval and traffic changes ahead

The administration said it planned to seek final approval at Thursday’s meeting of the Capital National Planning Commission and might begin construction that day, despite the two lawsuits then pending. Officials have also said the arch would serve a national security function.

The proposal includes changes to local traffic, including rerouting vehicles on nearby roads. The planned site is on grass near the bridge connecting Washington with Arlington National Cemetery.