The White House is initiating security upgrades to its front door, according to an official statement. This project, which is expected to take several months, has been advocated by the U.S. Secret Service and aims to fortify the entrance at the North Portico, currently covered by scaffolding and a tarp due to ongoing repairs to the exterior columns. These repairs were requested by President Donald Trump.
Unlike other cosmetic projects at the White House, this upgrade focuses on security enhancements. Additionally, plans for new fencing around Lafayette Park have been submitted by the Trump administration, aiming to replace temporary barricades with a permanent fencing solution to improve security during presidential movements. This proposal requires approval from multiple federal agencies and could see phased implementation starting in 2027.
The security upgrades come in light of multiple assassination attempts against Trump, including incidents at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner and an alleged plot during a UFC event. The North Portico fortifications are projected to be completed by mid-September, according to the White House official. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum noted that the column restoration project is progressing quickly, despite the installation of a tarp around the scaffolding.