Overview
- President Donald Trump on Friday unveiled plans for a permanent 250-foot Independence Arch across the Potomac from the Lincoln Memorial.
- Catesby Leigh, who first pitched the concept, says the White House ignored his guidance and he opposes the selected site and height.
- Leigh originally proposed a temporary 60-foot commemorative arch rather than a permanent structure.
- Architectural experts warn the proposed placement could obstruct pedestrian views of Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial.
- Former Virginia state architectural historian Calder Loth cautions the arch could diminish or block the view of Arlington House.