“Permanent fencing on the block of Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House and around Lafayette Square. The Secret Service and the White House would control gates they can open and close whenever they decide there’s a “security risk.” Pedestrian access in front of the People’s House — the view of the North Portico that every tourist, every school trip, every protester has had for generations — shut off at the flip of a switch. Oh, and they’re also hardening the North Portico front doors. The ones that face the public. That project wraps in September. The official line? Security and cost savings. They’re tired of putting up and taking down temporary barriers for special events. That’s right — the administration that’s building a ballroom the size of a Costco is suddenly pinching pennies on fence rentals. And the cherry on top: this pairs beautifully with Trump’s other Lafayette Square plan — planting 47 trees in the park. Forty-seven. For the 47th president. A former federal planning official told the Post that between the fence and the trees, residents and tourists wouldn’t be able to see the White House from any reasonable distance. He’s not securing the building. He’s disappearing it. Turning 1600 Pennsylvania into Mar-a-Lago North: a private club you hear about but never see, where the members decide who gets in…”

Lafayette Park Security Modifications. U.S Commission of Fine Arts. Concept Submittal. July 16, 2026