DC planning panel chair defends Trump arch over concerns it violates height law National Capital Planning Commission Chairman William Scharf suggested that a federal law restricting building height in Washington, D.C., may not apply to President Trump’s proposed 250-foot triumphal arch. Scharf, acknowledging the commission’s prior interpretation, believes the law is not applicable to federal construction but asked for formal legal justification before a decisive vote. The arch project, intended to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday, has drawn criticism from witnesses concerned about its size obstructing historic views and violating the Height of Buildings Act.

• National Capital Planning Commission Chairman William Scharf suggests the Height of Buildings Act may not apply to President Trump’s proposed 250-foot triumphal arch.
• Scharf believes the law is not applicable to federal construction, contradicting the NCPC’s historical interpretation.
• He requested a formal legal justification from the project team before a final approval vote.
• Witnesses expressed concerns that the arch’s size would obstruct historic views and violate the Height of Buildings Act.
• The arch is proposed as part of President Trump’s initiative for the country’s 250th birthday.