US: Judge halts Trump's 'triumphal arch' construction
What's the story
A United States federal judge has temporarily halted the construction of President Donald Trump's "triumphal arch" in Washington. The project, which was approved by the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) on Thursday, is now stalled for 14 days after US District Judge Tanya Chutkan's ruling. The NCPC voted 8-4 in favor of the arch, despite concerns that it would obstruct views of Arlington National Cemetery.
Project details
What will the arch look like?
The proposed structure, dubbed the "Arc de Trump," is intended to commemorate America's 250th anniversary.
A design rendering shows a golden Lady Liberty statue atop the arch, with gold eagles on either side and inscriptions of "One Nation Under God" and "Liberty and Justice for All."
The Trump administration envisions it as a military equipment storage complex with sniper and drone deployment capabilities.
Official defense
Supporters, opponents of project voice views
NCPC chairman Mark Paoletta defended the project, calling it important for national identity and a fulfillment of a 100-year plan for Columbia Island.
He said it would honor veterans and provide Arlington National Cemetery with a "monumental gateway."
However, opponents like Anne Wright, who spent 29 years in the US military and also worked in the diplomatic service, are planning protests against the construction.
Democratic Congressman Jared Huffman also criticized the project for disrupting historic sightlines in Washington.
Ongoing disputes
Legal challenges to other Trump projects
The arch project is one of several proposed by Trump for Washington, including a controversial ballroom at the White House.
Legal challenges have also been filed against these plans over environmental concerns and safety issues.
The future of the Arc de Trump remains uncertain as lawsuits continue to be filed against it.