Trump’s Proposed 250-Foot Monument Would Dominate Washington D.C. Landmarks

By Mark Swanson | Sunday, 01 February 2026 11:04 AM EST

President Donald Trump has reportedly raised his ambitions for a new monument overlooking the Potomac River, which would stand at 250 feet — significantly taller than Washington’s most recognizable landmarks. The White House is approximately 70 feet in height, while the Lincoln Memorial reaches about 100 feet.

The proposed structure, tentatively named the Independence Arch, would surpass both and become one of the tallest monuments in the nation’s capital. Trump has grown increasingly attached to this design as part of preparations for celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary. According to reports, the arch would transform a small plot of land between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery into a new landmark.

The president has previously considered smaller versions of the monument, including designs measuring 165 feet and 123 feet that he shared at a dinner last year. However, he has consistently favored the tallest option. Trump argued that the 250-foot structure would leave a lasting impression and that “250 for 250” makes the most sense.

When asked about the proposal aboard Air Force One on Saturday, Trump downplayed specific details, stating, “I don’t know what the height is.” He added, “I’d like it to be the biggest one of all. We’re the biggest, most powerful nation.” Trump has cited Paris’ Arc de Triomphe as a model for his design, though he claims America’s monument would exceed it “by a lot.” The French arch stands 164 feet tall, while the largest arch in the world — located in Mexico City — measures about 220 feet.

In December, Trump expressed hope that construction could begin within two months, though no final plans have been submitted for federal review. The proposed site, Memorial Circle, is controlled by the National Park Service, and any monument would require approval from multiple review bodies and potentially Congress. White House spokesman Davis Ingle told reporters that the arch would become “one of the most iconic landmarks not only in Washington, D.C., but throughout the world,” with President Trump’s vision “imprinted upon the fabric of America and be felt by generations to come.”

Trump recently posted images on Truth Social showcasing several design iterations, including one featuring gold gilding—a signature element of his past construction projects. Officials stated that the design remains under development. The president has indicated that the project could be funded with leftover private donations from his White House ballroom, which are estimated to cover a $400 million cost. However, any final proposal would face legal and regulatory hurdles before construction can begin.