White House security: Federal panel approves underground screening facility

The National Capital Planning Commission has approved the final design and building plans for a new underground security screening facility at the White House. The 33,000-square-foot facility is intended to replace the temporary structures, such as tents and barriers, that have been used for years to screen visitors.

Located beneath Sherman Park, southeast of the White House, the facility will serve public tour participants, staff, contractors, and guests attending large events. The project is a collaborative effort between the Executive Office of the President, the U.S. Secret Service, and the National Park Service. The administration aims to have the permanent facility operational by July 2028.

The move follows increased security concerns regarding the President, including multiple assassination attempts and a fatal shooting involving a man who opened fire near a security checkpoint in May.