national mall fuel cleanup efforts underway as massive underground spill threatens iconic D.C. landmark
WASHINGTON — A major environmental operation at the National Mall has shifted from crisis to cleanup after a ruptured fuel line leaked thousands of gallons of diesel beneath the nation’s front yard. Crews have excavated 12 feet of contaminated soil near the Washington Monument, halting public access to the Reflecting Pool area. The source: an aging underground storage tank tied to outdated park infrastructure. Estimated cost has tripled to $12 million, as officials push for emergency funding before the summer tourist season. The White House has been briefed.