CA, US & World
Trump’s National Garden of American Heroes Facing Significant Delays Ahead of 250th Birthday
The vision for a grand National Garden of American Heroes, intended to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with 250 statues of historical and cultural icons, is facing major setbacks. Sources familiar with the project’s planning suggest that despite the approaching July 4th celebrations, it is unlikely that even one statue will be completed and installed in time for the unveiling.
The ambitious project, which aims to honor figures such as Kobe Bryant, Elvis Presley, and Rosa Parks, has encountered significant administrative and logistical hurdles. Foundries and artists who applied to create the classical-style sculptures report that they have not received any communication from the administration. Furthermore, official plans have yet to be submitted to the Commission of Fine Arts or the National Capital Planning Commission, both of which must approve construction in the District of Columbia.
While a specific site in West Potomac Park along the Potomac River has been identified as the preferred location, the White House has not formally announced this choice. Architect Michael Franck has been hired to advise the project, but experts note that the typical review process for such monuments usually takes months, making a July completion nearly impossible.
The delays are part of a broader push by the Trump administration to reshape the architectural landscape of the capital, including a proposed White House ballroom and a triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery. Critics have expressed concern that these projects might bypass traditional congressional or commission oversight.
Funding for the garden has been sourced from various federal agencies, including 34 million dollars from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the National Endowment for the Arts, along with 40 million dollars appropriated through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Initially, the administration hoped to have at least 25 to 50 statues ready for 2026, but the lack of active contracts with artists suggests the garden will remain empty for the foreseeable future.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: CNN Newsource
April 19, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
What’s next for Palm Desert? Join community leaders, local businesses and regional stakeholders for the 2026 State of the City Address. Topics: • Economic Development • Infrastructure • Public Safety • Community Programs • Palm Desert’s Future CTA: Friday, September 18 | 11:30 AM JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort
Former Silvercrest CEO, William Rodriguez is expected back in court today in connection with the deadly 2024 Cathedral City hit and run that killed a woman. The murder charge was dismissed, but Rodriguez still faces felony hit and run and suspended license charges.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
Murder suspect Vicky Kim has once again not been cleared to appear in court. Kim is accused of killing her husband at their Palm Desert condominium complex. Her arraignment has now been delayed three times. Stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs as we track the latest developments in this case. #VickyKim #PalmDesert #CoachellaValley #BreakingNews #CourtUpdate NBCPalmSprings
Palm Springs is mourning the loss of beloved entertainer James “Gypsy” Haake, who has died at 94. Haake began his entertainment career at just 19 years old as a Broadway chorus dancer. After retiring from the stage, he returned to performing at 82, becoming the host of Carnival Cabaret at Oscars in downtown Palm Springs. A longtime friend of our station, Haake was a familiar and beloved figure in the Palm Springs entertainment community — and his contributions were recognized with a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars. His career spanned more than seven decades, proving that the spotlight never truly left him. ❤️ Rest in peace, James “Gypsy” Haake. Your legacy will live on in Palm Springs. #JamesGypsyHaake #PalmSprings #PalmSpringsWalkOfStars #CarnivalCabaret #PalmSpringsEntertainment #OscarsPalmSprings #PalmSpringsHistory
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
Who makes the NBC Top 3, winner will be announced Sunday night on NBC Palm Springs, with the player who makes the number one spot winning a $250 prize from @hondaofthedesert! Comment below if it will be 1) Sterling Conley with the rushing TD, 2) Marcus Kennedy with the touchdown catch, 3) Cade Pinon with the big time sack, 4) Kingston Pellum with the pick-6, or 5) Caleb Hartwell with the saving throw #fypage #fridaynightlights #football #hondaofthedesert #highschoolfootball
James Nellis from @dsrt_club_lq and @rd_rnnr_lq makes us one of his signature dishes, his Maine scallops with hibiscus puree. His creativity and skill lead to unique bold flavors and scrumptious dishes. We chat about his love of trying new things in the kitchen, what being a chef means to him, and how food can different, flavorful, and fun. This is James Nellis on a plate. See it now on nbcpalmsprings.com
At the annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa, first responders, families and community members came together to honor the lives lost—and the heroes who answered the call 25 years ago on September 11, 2001. Two first responders who responded to opposite sides of the World Trade Center met for the first time at the event, sharing a powerful moment of remembrance and connection. 26 flights. Three times. One enduring message: Never Forget. #NeverForget #September11 #911Memorial #MemorialStairClimb #FirstResponders HonorAndRemember 911
Palm Desert’s future takes center stage next week. The Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce presents the 2026 State of the City Address & Luncheon on Friday, September 18, at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort. The event brings together local business leaders, community members and city stakeholders for an inside look at the priorities, opportunities and future of Palm Desert. Friday, September 18 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort Palm Desert Individual tickets are $85 for Chamber members and $95 for non-members. Get the details and registration information from the Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce. #PalmDesert #StateOfTheCity #CoachellaValley #PalmDesertBusiness #GreaterPalmSprings #PalmDesertChamber