Trump's $7.5M plan to paint Eisenhower Building white faces NCPC scrutiny

The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) has delayed approval of President Donald Trump's proposal to paint the Eisenhower Executive Office Building (EEOB) white, requesting further studies on cost, maintenance, and alternative options like exterior lighting. The project, estimated at $7.5 million by the White House Office of Administration (WHOA), would cover the granite exterior with silicate paint. During a 1.5-hour session on May 7, preservationists and the public voiced strong opposition, with over 2,000 negative comments submitted. Ryan Erb, WHOA's construction operations manager, stated the paint is expected to last 25 years but noted additional costs for cleaning and preparation. Michael Weil, an NCPC urban planner, highlighted the need to assess impacts on the Lafayette Square National Historic Landmark District. Evan Cash, a D.C. council member, raised concerns about ongoing maintenance. Greg and Marion Werkheiser of Cultural Heritage Partners are suing to block the project. Danilo Feliciano compared the plan to the film Death Becomes Her, calling it a temporary fix. The commission voted nearly unanimously to seek more information, with only Arrington Dixon absent during the roll call. The EEOB, last cleaned between 2004 and 2012, has only been cleaned twice in 150 years.