Pool News
Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool May Meet Its Deadline—But Will It Solve the Problem?
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is one of the most recognizable bodies of water in the world. Stretching between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, the century-old basin has served as the backdrop for presidential inaugurations, historic speeches, protests, celebrations, and countless photographs. It is as much a piece of American history as the monuments it reflects.
For decades, however, one of the most iconic pools in America has struggled with persistent algae blooms, water clarity issues, leaks, and aging infrastructure. Those problems have led multiple administrations to explore several rehabilitation projects over the years.
Now, with the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration approaching, the Trump administration has accelerated plans to renovate the pool once again, setting an ambitious timeline intended to have the project completed in time for Fourth of July festivities in Washington, D.C.
The project has generated significant discussion within both preservation and aquatic industry circles. To better understand the challenges involved, Pool Magazine spoke with Tim Auerhahn, Chairman of the Aquatic Council, who was recently interviewed by The New York Times regarding the project. Auerhahn has worked on numerous high-profile aquatic facilities, including projects at Camp David and other government installations.
His perspective offers insight into both the opportunities and concerns surrounding one of the most closely watched aquatic renovations in the country.
A Unique Aquatic Challenge
For those outside the pool industry, the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool may appear to be little more than a long decorative basin. According to Auerhahn, that perception couldn’t be further from reality.
“This is an enormous project on several fronts,” Auerhahn explained. “For any pool contractor that’s working on it, it’s probably going to go down as their largest pool renovation project ever.”
The reflecting pool is approximately six million gallons and more than a third of a mile long. Unlike traditional swimming pools that gain volume through length, width, and depth, the reflecting pool derives most of its volume through its extraordinary length while remaining relatively shallow.
“You’re looking at a body of water that’s about a foot and a half to three feet deep at any given point,” said Auerhahn. “It’s a very shallow body of water, too, which really lends itself to notable algae blooms.”
The combination of shallow depth, summer heat, sunlight exposure, environmental issues, and sheer size creates conditions that make algae control extremely difficult. Those challenges have existed for more than a century.
Why Previous Renovations Didn’t Solve the Problem
The last major rehabilitation project was completed in 2012 following a roughly two-year reconstruction effort that cost approximately $34 million. That project focused heavily on structural concerns, including installing thousands of support pilings beneath the basin.
While the work addressed settlement and leakage concerns, algae problems returned almost immediately.
“Right away, when they reopened it in 2012, just a couple weeks later, the algae was back,” Auerhahn noted. “If you want it to be a really crystal clear body of water, structure, surface, and mechanical equipment all need to be considered in a restoration or a renovation.”
From his viewpoint, solving the algae issue requires a comprehensive approach that addresses circulation, filtration, chemistry, waterproofing, and structural integrity simultaneously.
The Coating That Started the Debate
Much of the current discussion centers around the decision to coat the basin with a polyurea-based lining system.
President Trump initially described the project as a relatively straightforward effort to “paint” the reflecting pool blue, a characterization that immediately drew criticism from aquatic professionals.
Auerhahn became one of the most quoted experts on the topic after telling The New York Times that “painting is not going to solve that problem.”
His concern wasn’t that the coating would fail as a waterproofing material. Rather, he questioned whether it addressed the underlying issues that have plagued the reflecting pool for decades.
“If we’re gonna fix the algae problem and we’re going to use a sealant on this basin, that’s ultimately not going to address the real problem,” he explained.
He believes the darker blue surface may improve appearance in the short term and even make algae less noticeable, but that it won’t eliminate the biological conditions that create algae blooms in the first place.
“I think when late September rolls around, and Washington, D.C. has been baking in 90-degree heat, we’re probably gonna see a pretty significant algae bloom again in this body of water unless a whole bunch of other things are addressed.”
What About Filtration and Circulation?
One area where Auerhahn believes meaningful progress could be made is through modernization of the reflecting pool’s circulation and treatment systems.
The previous renovation in 2012 introduced new equipment that draws water from the Tidal Basin rather than relying on municipal water supplies. However, aquatic technology has advanced significantly over the past decade.
“I think what we have done in a decade and a half in filtration, chemical delivery systems, advanced oxidation, and circulation of this basin, we could probably move in a direction where this looks more like crystal clear water for longer periods of time.”
When asked what technologies might be most effective, Auerhahn pointed to ozone and ultraviolet systems.
“There does seem to be a company consulting on this from an ozone generation perspective,” he said. “Advanced oxidation through UV or ozone might be the better way to go, and with that, chemical balance supported by the right circulation system, and ultimately everything being fed through a better filtration system.”
In his opinion, upgrading the equipment might ultimately have a greater impact on water clarity than resurfacing the basin itself.
Questions About Rhino Pipeliner 5000
Another area drawing scrutiny is the specific coating selected for the project.
According to Auerhahn, the material being used, called Rhino Pipeliner 5000, is a product manufactured by the same Rhino known for their popular truck bed liners.
“That’s probably what they’re best known for,” Auerhahn said.
After researching the product and consulting industry professionals, he found little evidence of widespread use in large aquatic applications.
“I proposed it in a whole bunch of pool groups. I said, ‘Has anybody used this? Has anybody seen anybody use it?’ I kind of got crickets.”
His concerns extend beyond simple familiarity. He notes the product lacks peer-reviewed testing specific to several conditions that are highly relevant to the reflecting pool.
According to Auerhahn, there are unanswered questions regarding long-term UV exposure, chemical resistance, adhesion to granite surfaces, and how the coating could eventually be removed if future preservationists decide to restore the basin to its original appearance.
“There are a lot of question marks,” he said.
Among them are reports of bubbling, cracking, uneven appearance, and color inconsistency observed during installation.
“If we decide to remove this product at some point in the future… what have we done to that historical granite?”
Those unknowns remain one of the primary concerns among preservation-minded observers.
Another Leading Expert Weighs In
To gain additional perspective, Pool Magazine also reached out to renowned pool construction expert Paolo Benedetti.
Benedetti, a renowned pool builder, industry expert, and current Watershape University educator, offered a somewhat different assessment.
He noted that polyurea is widely regarded as a durable waterproofing material and has been successfully used in surge tanks and other demanding aquatic applications.
According to Benedetti, the material should hold up structurally and may actually be one of the few practical options available, given the immense scale of the project.
He did, however, acknowledge that UV exposure will likely cause the blue color to fade over time.
Benedetti also pointed out that alternative finishes, such as plaster, would likely deteriorate quickly under the heavy public use the reflecting pool experiences. More durable alternatives, such as large-format porcelain or stone, would dramatically increase both project cost and timeline.
Auerhahn largely agrees with that assessment.
“If you’re just focused on waterproofing this structure, this is a really reasonable solution,” he said. “I do think it’s going to slow the water loss significantly.”
His concern remains whether waterproofing was truly the primary issue being solved.
The Challenge of “Trump Speed”
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of the project has been its timeline.
The renovation was publicly announced in late April, with construction activity beginning almost immediately. Officials initially targeted May 22 for completion, a date that has already passed.
While some observers have criticized the accelerated pace, Auerhahn cautions against viewing the discussion through a political lens.
“This isn’t a political issue,” explained Auerhahn, “usually, with restoration projects of this nature, the process is going to be slow, and the solution is going to involve peer review. Because ultimately we want to make sure we get it right.”
Auerhahn noted that major restoration projects in Washington, D.C. typically involve architects, historians, preservation experts, engineers, landscape architects, the fine arts commission, and aquatic specialists working together to ensure decisions are made thoughtfully.
That level of review helps answer difficult questions surrounding materials, aesthetics, longevity, reversibility, and preservation.
The concern for some observers is that the accelerated schedule may not have allowed enough time for those conversations to ever occur.
Will It Be Ready For July 4?
Despite his reservations, Auerhahn believes the project is likely to meet its ultimate goal.
“From what I saw, they seemed to be almost done,” he said after visiting the site in person.
By his estimate, roughly 95 percent of the basin had already been coated as of his visit in early June.
“I do think at Trump speed, they got this done for the 250th.”
Barring unforeseen complications, visitors attending July Fourth celebrations will likely see a newly coated reflecting pool filled with water and ready for public viewing.
Whether the solution proves successful over the long term remains another question entirely.
A Quick Fix or a Lasting Restoration?
In the end, Auerhahn sees a distinction between achieving a short-term visual improvement and executing a true historic restoration.
“If this was a quick fix and if the messaging was, ‘We want this to look great this summer for this event,’ they did that,” he said.
Water, after all, remains remarkably forgiving. Freshly filled and newly resurfaced, the reflecting pool will almost certainly produce beautiful photographs and dramatic reflections.
But questions remain about long-term color retention, UV exposure, chemical resistance, algae control, future removability, and the impact on the original granite surfaces beneath the coating.
Those are questions that simply cannot be answered yet.
As one of America’s most visible aquatic landmarks enters its next chapter, the industry will be watching closely—not just to see how it looks this summer, but how it performs in the years to come.
Ready to take a deeper dive?
Listen to our entire conversation with Tim Auerhahn on the Pool Magazine Podcast.
Landmark Aquatic is pleased to announce that three of its aquatic facility projects received 2026 PHTA Awards of Excellence from the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), one of the pool and spa industry’s premier design competitions.
- Doris Roznovak Aquatic Center, Taylor, TX — Merit Award, Commercial Aquatic Facilities
- Danville High School Natatorium Danville, IN — Merit Award, Commercial Aquatic Facilities
- Astra Tower Apartments, Salt Lake City, UT — Silver Award, Elevated Pool and Spa Structures
PHTA is the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry. Its annual International Awards of Excellence is one of the industry’s largest and most respected design competitions, recognizing the most creative and innovative pools, spas, hot tubs, and water features built each year. Hundreds of entries are submitted annually by professionals across the U.S. and around the world.
“PHTA is proud to recognize our members for their craftsmanship, inspired design, and dedication to elevating the industry,” said Sabeena Hickman, CAE, President and CEO of PHTA.
“These awards reflect what it takes to design, build, operate, and maintain a truly successful aquatic facility,” said J. Ryan Casserly, Chief Executive Officer of Landmark Aquatic. “That level of commitment shows up in the work of everyone on our team, and we’re proud to keep investing in serving our customers and the communities who enjoy these facilities.”
About Landmark
Landmark Aquatic is a nationwide provider of commercial aquatic facility design, construction, and maintenance services, with more than six decades of industry experience. Landmark supports clients across most of the U.S. through construction-led solutions and its AquatiCare maintenance program — delivering excellence “for the life of your pool” and building long-term partnerships through exceptional service and forward-thinking solutions. Learn more at www.landmarkaquatic.com
NORRISTOWN, Pennsylvania – Women in the Industry (WITI), an initiative of the Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA), is proud to host its 3rd Annual WITI Walk on Sunday, October 11, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at scenic Norristown Farm Park in Norristown, Pennsylvania.
Participants may also join virtually from anywhere in the country, allowing supporters nationwide to walk, run, or donate in support of a shared mission: ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn the life-saving skill of swimming.
The walk benefits Every Child a Swimmer (ECAS), a national nonprofit dedicated to preventing childhood drowning by providing swim lesson scholarships to children from low-income families, promoting water safety education, and advancing legislation that expands access to drowning prevention resources. Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages one to four, making access to swimming lessons and water safety education more important than ever.
The partnership between NESPA, WITI, and Every Child a Swimmer reflects the pool industry’s unwavering commitment to safety. While WITI exists to empower, mentor, and elevate women throughout the industry, its members also recognize the important role they play in protecting families and promoting the safe enjoyment of water. Together, these organizations help educate communities, expand access to swim lessons, and work toward a future where every child has the opportunity to learn to swim.
“We are incredibly proud to partner with Every Child a Swimmer,” said WITI leadership. “As women in the pool industry, we understand that our work extends beyond building and maintaining pools, it includes educating communities, promoting water safety, and helping save lives. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.”
Leading Every Child a Swimmer is Executive Director Casey McGovern, whose commitment to drowning prevention is deeply personal.
After losing her 19-month-old daughter, Edna Mae (“Em”), to drowning in 2009, McGovern dedicated her life to ensuring other families never experience the same tragedy. Today, her leadership has helped grow Every Child a Swimmer into a national network of more than 430 participating swim school locations across 46 states, providing nearly $1 million annually in swim lesson scholarships for children in need.
“Our mission is simple,” said McGovern. “Every child deserves the opportunity to learn this life-saving skill, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances. Through partnerships like WITI, we’re expanding access to swim lessons, measuring outcomes, and helping ensure more children gain the skills they need to stay safe around water.”
Participants of all ages and abilities are encouraged to register, walk, run, sponsor the event, or donate. Those unable to attend in Pennsylvania can participate virtually from anywhere in the country by walking in their own communities while supporting the cause online.
Register Today
https://nespa.users.membersuite.com/events/683a8c52-0078-ce39-202f-0b49bfa98b74/details
Event Information:
2026 WITI Walk
Sunday, October 11, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Norristown Farm Park
2500 Upper Farm Road
Norristown, PA 19403
Virtual participation is available nationwide.
Every registration, sponsorship, and donation helps provide life-saving swim lessons to children who otherwise could not afford them. Thanks to generous matching support, every dollar donated will be quadrupled, significantly increasing the impact for children and families.
About Women in the Industry (WITI)
Women in the Industry (WITI), an initiative of the Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA), is dedicated to empowering, connecting, mentoring, and supporting women throughout the pool, spa, and outdoor living industry. Through education, networking, philanthropy, and leadership opportunities, WITI fosters professional growth while giving back to communities through charitable initiatives such as the annual WITI Walk.
About the Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA)
The Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA) is a regional trade association serving the pool, spa, and outdoor living industry throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. For more than 65 years, NESPA has supported its members through education, advocacy, professional development, networking, and consumer outreach while promoting the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and industry excellence.
About Every Child a Swimmer
Every Child a Swimmer is a national nonprofit dedicated to reducing childhood drowning by providing swim lesson scholarships to children from low-income families, promoting water safety education, and advocating for legislation that expands access to drowning prevention initiatives. The organization believes every child deserves the opportunity to learn the life-saving skill of swimming.
Media Contact
Phone: 609.689.9111
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.nespapool.org
Drone delivery may be the future of getting everyday purchases to your doorstep, but apparently Amazon still has a few kinks to work out — particularly when swimming pools are involved.
A video making the rounds on social media this week shows what should have been a routine Amazon drone delivery going very wrong. Instead of safely depositing the customer’s order on dry ground, the package winds up in the backyard swimming pool.
The incident is funny enough when viewed through the lens of an unexpected pool delivery. But it also highlights a very real challenge Amazon faces as it prepares to dramatically expand its Prime Air drone delivery program across the United States.
And remarkably, this isn’t the first time an Amazon drone has put a customer’s package in the pool.
Amazon Has Already Made This Mistake Before
In July 2025, Arizona resident Daniel Muniz decided to try Prime Air after seeing drone delivery available for his order in Avondale.
The delivery was captured on video.
Amazon’s drone successfully reached the property and released the shoebox-sized package over the designated area. There was just one problem: the downward force generated by the drone’s propellers pushed the package several feet across the yard and directly into Muniz’s swimming pool.
Fortunately, the contents weren’t particularly vulnerable to water. Muniz had ordered vitamins.
The incident was especially notable because Amazon’s delivery system is designed to identify suitable drop locations around a customer’s property. Amazon explains that its mapping technology identifies “delivery zones” free of obstacles and establishes appropriate delivery points within those areas.
The company even specifically acknowledges swimming pools as something the technology needs to recognize.
According to Amazon, a swimming pool can appear to be a flat surface in satellite imagery despite obviously being an unsuitable location for a package delivery. Once the drone reaches the designated location, the aircraft descends to approximately 13 feet above the ground, checks that the area is clear and releases the package.
In the Avondale incident, the package wasn’t intentionally dropped into the water. It initially landed on dry ground before the drone’s prop wash sent it into the pool.
Amazon apologized to the customer at the time, characterizing incidents like it as rare.
A year later, however, another swimming pool has clearly managed to intercept an Amazon delivery.
Pools Aren’t the Only Problem
Swimming pools haven’t been the only unexpected destinations for Amazon’s drones.
In another widely reported incident, an Amazon delivery drone came down in a residential garden after experiencing problems during operation. Other incidents have been considerably more serious than a wet package.
In February 2026, an Amazon Prime Air drone struck the exterior of an apartment complex in Richardson, Texas, before the damaged aircraft fell to the ground.
Amazon’s drone program has also faced scrutiny following collisions involving infrastructure. These episodes underscore the complexity of operating autonomous aircraft at scale in residential environments where drones must contend with buildings, trees, utility infrastructure, changing weather conditions and other obstacles.
Amazon says its latest MK30 drones use a sophisticated perception and “Detect-and-Avoid” system designed to identify obstacles and make navigation decisions autonomously.
That technology is going to become increasingly important because Amazon isn’t backing away from drone delivery.
It’s doing the opposite.
Amazon Plans a Massive Drone Delivery Expansion
Amazon announced this week that it intends to expand Prime Air to nearly 500 U.S. cities and towns by the end of 2026, a dramatic increase from the 11 locations where the service currently operates. New markets are expected to include areas around Chicago, Atlanta, Cleveland, Syracuse and Boise.
The company says each Prime Air location can serve communities within roughly a 7.5-mile radius. Its MK30 drones can transport eligible packages weighing up to five pounds, with Amazon targeting delivery times of roughly an hour or less.
Amazon has already completed hundreds of thousands of drone deliveries this year, according to Prime Air Vice President David Carbon.
The long-term ambitions are considerably larger.
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy has said the company believes drone delivery could eventually reach 30 million customers and handle as many as half a billion packages annually by 2030.
The appeal isn’t difficult to understand.
For small, lightweight purchases, a drone potentially eliminates much of the traditional last-mile delivery process. Instead of waiting for a delivery van to work its way through dozens or hundreds of stops, an individual aircraft can carry an order directly from a nearby fulfillment facility to a customer’s home.
Need sunscreen before heading outside? Batteries for a poolside speaker? A replacement part or bottle of test strips?
Amazon envisions those types of purchases arriving from the sky in less time than it might take someone to drive to a store and back.
The company says more than 60,000 products are already eligible for drone delivery in supported markets, ranging from household necessities to electronics.
That’s a compelling vision of where residential delivery could be headed.
The technology just needs to become consistently boring.
Right now, the occasional drone crash, unexpected landing or package taking a swim makes for an entertaining viral video. As Amazon expands Prime Air from a relatively limited program into hundreds of communities, however, the margin for these mistakes becomes increasingly important.
Delivering a bottle of vitamins into someone’s swimming pool is inconvenient and a little funny.
Doing the same thing with a smartphone probably isn’t.
Judging by the occasional package ending up at the bottom of a swimming pool, there are still a few bugs left to work out first.
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