The Trump administration has put forward proposals to bolster security around the White House, including the construction of a fence around Lafayette Park and a new underground facility for screening visitors. The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts is scheduled to review the plans on Thursday.
The proposal for Lafayette Park involves fencing the entire 8-acre park, with gates at the north and south entrances to control public access. Options include whether to incorporate or exclude four monuments located at each corner of the park. The administration argues that the fence will enhance long-term safety, preserve the park's identity, and maintain public access. Lafayette Park has not had a permanent fence since the 19th century, and the Secret Service anticipates construction could begin next year.
Additionally, the commission will review a revised design for an underground facility to screen thousands of tourists and other individuals who visit or work at the White House. This facility would be built beneath Sherman Park, southeast of the White House. The revised design shifts the facility's entrance to the western edge of the park to minimize impact on surrounding views. The permanent facility is intended to replace temporary screening tents currently in use and improve overall security and visitor experience.
The Secret Service, the Interior Department, the National Park Service, and the Executive Office of the President are jointly seeking to start construction on the 33,000-square-foot underground facility in August, with a target operational date of July 2028. Visitors would undergo an initial ID check before entering a pavilion, proceed to a lower level for a second screening, and then take escalators to the White House grounds.
These security enhancements come amid heightened concerns for presidential safety. The notes mention multiple assassination attempts targeting President Donald Trump and a recent incident where a man opened fire near a White House security checkpoint. The administration views these proposed permanent structures as an improvement over existing temporary barriers, such as bicycle racks used for perimeter security and screening.