Trump administration weighs fence near White House

The Trump administration is considering a proposal to install permanent fencing around Lafayette Square and along sections of Pennsylvania Avenue near the White House, according to officials familiar with the discussions. The plan, which remains preliminary and has not received final approval from President Donald Trump, aims to enhance security and reduce the recurring costs of erecting temporary barriers for events.

The proposal would place fencing near the intersections of Pennsylvania Avenue with 15th and 17th Streets NW, allowing the U.S. Secret Service and White House officials to open and close sections as operational needs demand. Officials are reportedly considering repurposing existing fencing materials used for major events rather than purchasing entirely new structures. A separate security project to upgrade the North Portico doors is already underway and is expected to be completed around mid-September.

The consideration follows several security incidents, including a shooting near the White House complex in late May and an alleged assassination attempt at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner in April. President Trump also stated this week that he is a...