The Trump administration announced Thursday that excavation work for President Donald Trump’s proposed Great Triumphal Arch will begin within the next two weeks at Memorial Circle in Washington, D.C.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced the timeline, saying crews are preparing to begin the excavation necessary for the arch and a planned military observation deck. The structure is planned for Columbia Island, between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, placing it in one of the most prominent areas of the nation’s capital.

The proposed arch will stand approximately 250 feet tall and feature granite construction, extensive gold detailing, three golden figures, and an observation deck. The administration says the monument is intended to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary and honor the history and significance of Arlington National Cemetery.

Burgum described the project as a major piece of American architecture and said its location is intended to reflect the significance of the surrounding national landmarks.

The announcement marks a major step forward after months of planning and review. The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts has approved the project, while the National Capital Planning Commission has also given preliminary approval. The National Park Service has backed the proposal despite acknowledging that the massive structure would adversely affect historic sightlines connecting nearby landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington House and other sites.

The project has also faced legal opposition. Three veterans and an architectural historian filed a federal lawsuit arguing that the administration needs congressional authorization to construct the monument. The Justice Department is seeking dismissal of the case, and the legal challenge remains pending.

Construction is expected to take approximately two to three years, with the National Park Service anticipating an intensive work schedule. If that timeline holds, the arch could be completed toward the end of Trump’s second term.

The triumphal arch is part of a broader effort by Trump to reshape major public spaces and landmarks in Washington. Other projects include renovations at the Kennedy Center, improvements to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and construction of a new White House ballroom.

With excavation now scheduled to begin, the proposed arch is moving from planning into active construction preparation despite the continuing legal challenge and criticism from preservationists and others concerned about its impact on Washington’s historic landscape.