Washington Monument reopens after renovations
The monument is named for the nation's first president, George Washington. It suffered earthquake damage in 2011. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
A park ranger walks on the plaza on reopening day. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
A park rangers wears a George Washington wig to the reopening. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
First lady Melania Trump participates in a ribbon cutting ceremony to reopen the monument. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
Trump greets students from Amidon-Bowen Elementary School in Washington at the ceremony to reopen the monument. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
A George Washington impersonator walks to the newly reopened monument. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
The first visitors walk to the reopened monument. The National Park Service decided in December 2016 to close it after computer problems affected the elevator and trapped people inside. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
The monument's 900 stairs have been closed to the public since 1976. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
The George Washington Washington Nationals mascot greets the first visitors to the reopened monument. Renovations include a new security post at the base. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
A park ranger sets up a ceremonial ribbon for the reopening ceremony. Since its dedication in 1885, the monument has been renovated several times. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
Students await the first lady's arrival. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
Interior Secretary David Bernhardt talks to park rangers at the ceremony. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
