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The Trump administration is considering installing permanent fencing around portions of the White House complex as part of an effort to strengthen presidential security following a series of recent threats and security incidents.
According to The Washington Post, administration officials are discussing plans to place permanent barriers at both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue near the White House and around Lafayette Square. The proposal would allow the White House and the U.S. Secret Service to quickly restrict pedestrian access when security conditions require it.
The fencing would be located near the intersections of 15th and 17th Streets NW, where Pennsylvania Avenue runs in front of the White House.
Officials said the barriers could be opened or closed as needed, replacing temporary fencing that is routinely installed during major events or periods of heightened security.
“There are always discussions ongoing about how to make the White House Complex as safe as possible,” a White House official said in a statement to CBS News.
“However, nothing is confirmed at this time. Any projects that are pursued will go through the necessary review process,” the official added.
The discussions come amid increased security concerns surrounding President Donald Trump. Administration officials have reviewed security measures following multiple threats directed at the president over the past two years, including a shooting near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in April and other security incidents.
The Secret Service referred questions about the proposal to the White House. No final decision has been made, and the proposal still requires President Trump’s approval.
Officials are also evaluating whether existing fencing already used during major security operations could be repurposed instead of building an entirely new perimeter, a move that could reduce costs.
The White House has long relied on temporary barriers and Secret Service personnel to limit pedestrian access along Pennsylvania Avenue during periods of elevated security.
Past administrations resisted installing permanent fencing out of concern it would reduce public access to one of Washington’s most recognizable landmarks.
In 1995, then-President Bill Clinton permanently closed the section of Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House to vehicle traffic following the Oklahoma City bombing, citing security concerns. The roadway was converted into a pedestrian plaza to help protect the White House from vehicle attacks.
The administration is also considering permanent fencing around Lafayette Square, the historic park north of the White House that regularly hosts tourists and political demonstrations.