The North Portico of the White House is currently undergoing security enhancements and upgrades, a White House official confirmed. The work, which began with scaffolding and tarps covering the entrance, is anticipated to be completed around mid-September.
The tarps are designed to resemble the existing portico, featuring printed columns and a lamp to maintain the appearance of the 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue entrance during the construction period. The specific nature of the security enhancements has not been disclosed.
This project follows recent restoration work on the building's front columns, which saw scaffolding erected in late June for what was described as standard stone repair. Simultaneously, a separate proposal from the Trump administration, submitted to the Commission of Fine Arts, outlines potential fencing for Lafayette Park and Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House to address security concerns. The commission is scheduled to discuss this plan, which includes options for permanent, non-scalable fencing, on July 16.
The proposal cites the current temporary measures, such as fencing and bike racks, as unsustainable and points to Lafayette Park's role as a focal point for demonstrations, some of which have escalated. The plan suggests that permanent fencing could help de-escalate potentially violent protests.
Other recent projects at the White House include the ongoing construction of a granite helipad for Marine One on the South Lawn, funded by Sikorsky Aircraft. The Trump administration also oversaw the demolition of the East Wing to make way for a large ballroom, a project that has faced legal challenges. Additionally, modifications to the Rose Garden, installation of large flagpoles on the North and South lawns, and the creation of a "Presidential Walk of Fame" along the West Wing Colonnade have been undertaken.