Trump Says Planned Triumphal Arch Will Be Military Complex With Snipers

President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that his proposed 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery will be converted into a top grade Military Complex.

Trump posted on his social media platform that this change was made at the strong request of the United States Military, and for National Security purposes. The arch, planned for the Receptive Circle adjoining the Arlington Memorial Bridge, would house, store, and have the rapid ability to use large numbers of drones, plus Snipers, on both the roof and plaza areas, and additionally have and hold large quantities of sniper ammunition in storage.

Trump claimed there will be no facility like this anywhere in the World, noting that Washington, D.C., is the only one of 59 top cities and capitals without a triumphal arch. The Pentagon declined to comment in response to requests. This announcement marks the second time Trump has framed a controversial construction project as a national security endeavor; he previously argued that the White House ballroom construction was necessary for national security and tied it to an underground military complex.

The Supreme Court allowed ballroom construction to continue in August after finding that its challenger likely lacked standing. The arch project has faced opposition from preservationists, lawmakers, and veterans who argue it could disrupt views of the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. The proposed structure would be twice the height of the Lincoln Memorial.

More than 100,000 people submitted comments to the National Park Service during its review. The project also faces legal challenges; a group of three veterans and an architectural historian sued, alleging the project needs congressional approval and would desecrate the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkin ordered the government earlier this month to provide 48 hours' notice before any activity on Memorial Circle.

House Democrats introduced a bill in May to block the arch and require congressional approval for similar structures on National Park Service land. Construction was previously expected to begin this month.