Federal panel reviews park fencing plan and visitor screening center to improve White House security
The plan would replace temporary barriers and tents with permanent security infrastructure, while preserving public access and protecting monuments, officials said.
- The Trump administration submitted a proposal last week to the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts for permanent 8-to-9-foot fencing around Lafayette Park, which the commission reviews today, Thursday, July 16.
- Lafayette Park has not had a permanent fence since the 19th century, but the proposal claims permanent fencing will "enhance long-term safety" and replace cumbersome temporary structures that degrade visitor experience.
- The 79-page proposal includes gates at north and south entrances to control access during "heightened conditions," while repaving walkways in granite aims to reduce tripping hazards and prevent loose bricks from being used as projectiles.
- Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton introduced a bill last week to prohibit permanent fencing, arguing it creates unnecessary barriers, while preservationist Charles Birnbaum said fencing "changes the way all of that is perceived."
- Pending funding, the administration anticipates "phased implementation beginning in 2027," while today's commission meeting provides the public an opportunity to offer feedback on the fencing's aesthetics.
30 Articles
30 Articles
Secret Service says swords must come off White House statues in sweeping Lafayette Square security overhaul
The Secret Service told a federal arts commission this week that swords will have to be removed from statues around the White House perimeter, part of a broad plan to replace the patchwork of temporary barricades ringing Lafayette Square with permanent fencing, gates, and an underground screening facility. Richard Macauley, chief of the Secret Service’s...
Ottumwa Courier
NBC WashingtonFederal panel clears new design for White House visitor center, considers Lafayette Park fence
A federal panel has given preliminary approval to an updated design for a new underground facility to screen visitors to the White House. The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts on Thursday also began considering a separate Trump administration proposal to…
White House Moves to Fence Off Lafayette Square
“A federal design panel on Thursday will consider the Trump administration’s plan to add a permanent fence around Lafayette Square Park, a public space next to the White House that is frequently the site of protests,” the New York Times reports. “The move comes as President Trump and the Secret Service say that they are […]
Trump wants to fence off the park closest to the White House, a popular protest spot
The Trump administration wants to install permanent fencing around Lafayette Park, directly outside the White House. It's long been a popular spot for protesters, who worry barriers will change that.
Associated Press News
Federal panel reviews park fencing plan and visitor screening center to improve White House security
Proposals from the Trump administration to improve security around the White House are up for review by the federal agency with oversight over the design.
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