D.C. and Virginia Sue to Block Proposed Triumphal Arch

Washington, D.C., and Virginia have sued the Trump administration to stop construction and site preparation for a proposed Triumphal Arch at Memorial Circle, asking a federal court to block the project while their legal challenge proceeds. The joint complaint, filed by D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb and Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, seeks preliminary and permanent restraints on construction. The jurisdictions also ask the court to prevent federal officials from authorizing, funding or permitting work at the site. The plaintiffs allege the project lacks required congressional authorization and violates federal height restrictions, environmental-review requirements and historic-preservation laws. Those claims have not been adjudicated. The lawsuit says federal officials did not adequately consider alternatives or consult the jurisdictions before advancing plans for the arch. D.C. and Virginia contend construction would congest traffic, disrupt emergency services and cause environmental harm, including pollution and runoff into the Potomac River. They say the project could strain government resources and affect...