DarkSky DC Raises Concerns About Proposed Triumphal Arch Lighting in The Washington Post

A proposed 250-foot-tall Triumphal Arch near Arlington National Cemetery will bring excessive nighttime lighting to one of our nation's most solemn and historic landscapes.

In an October 27, 2026 Washington Post opinion column, "How Trump's arch could disrupt the solemn nighttime of Arlington Cemetery," architecture critic Philip Kennicott examines how plans to brightly illuminate the massive new monument could dramatically alter the nighttime character of Arlington Cemetery and the surrounding national landmarks. DarkSky DC Board President Jim Dougherty contributed his expertise to the article, highlighting concerns about the proposed lighting design.

The proposed lighting plan calls for powerful floodlights mounted on six 30-foot poles to illuminate the arch and its towering statue. After reviewing the proposal, Dougherty told The Washington Post, "It seems crazy bright." He also raised concerns about upward-directed floodlighting near the flight path of Reagan National Airport, where poorly controlled lighting could create glare that interferes with pilots' visibility. Beyond these safety concerns, the proposed illumination could undermine the carefully balanced nighttime appearance of Washington's monuments and the peaceful darkness that has long distinguished Arlington National Cemetery.

For more than 15 years, DarkSky DC has advocated for responsible outdoor lighting that meets practical needs while minimizing glare, wasted energy, and harm to the nighttime environment. We encourage readers to explore the full Washington Post column (https://www.washingtonpost.com/style/2026/10/27/how-trumps-arch-could-disrupt-solemn-nighttime-arlington-cemetery/) and to learn more about the importance of protecting the nighttime character of Washington, DC.