Military families and veterans fear tourists could see funerals at Arlington National Cemetery from a deck added to President Trump’s proposed arch. The open-air deck would offer 360-degree views; more than two dozen funerals take place there each weekday.
Two sources familiar with the matter told CNN the deck was absent from the original design and was added when the administration later made plans public. Renderings place the observation level on the fifth floor, 161 feet above the surrounding landscape.
Trump announced the structure could also serve military purposes, including allowing drones to be launched and snipers to be positioned atop it. White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said it would enhance the visitor experience. The administration says military use will not alter tourism plans, but did not answer CNN’s question about changing funeral protocols to protect families’ privacy. Documents obtained by CNN describe suggested construction measures: control temporary lighting, aim to coordinate with Arlington to avoid construction during funerals, and restrict high-noise work during services.
