Federal panel moves forward Trump arch plan near Arlington

A federal commission voted Thursday to advance President Donald Trump's proposal to build a massive triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery, moving the controversial project closer to final approval despite significant public opposition and legal challenges. The National Capital Planning Commission granted preliminary approval for the site and building plans for the arch, which is intended to commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary.

The commission, led by Trump appointee and White House aide Will Scharf, voted after nearly three hours of testimony from about 30 members of the public, including military veterans, parents of soldiers buried at Arlington, residents, and architects. Many voiced strong objections to constructing a celebratory monument so close to the solemn burial ground. The commission's staff had recommended approval alongside a series of required design revisions to comply with the 1910 Height of Buildings Act, a federal law that restricts building heights in Washington. The commission voted to continue deliberating the height issue, with a final vote expected at its next meeting in September.

The proposed arch, described as between 250 and 260 feet...