Renovation projects are underway at the White House, with a particular focus on the North Portico entrance, according to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. Describing the work as "historic renovation," Burgum noted that President Trump has expressed a desire to address visible wear and tear on the building, such as "door dings in the pillars."
The current restoration efforts involve not only the columns but also the North Portico doors themselves. A White House official informed TIME that these doors are being upgraded with security enhancements. The completion of the North Portico project is anticipated around mid-September.
A Secret Service official confirmed that security upgrades are being implemented at the entrance, though specific details of these enhancements remain undisclosed. Inquiries regarding the project's cost have not been answered by the White House.
Since returning to office, Trump has initiated several construction projects both at the White House and in the broader Washington D.C. area.