White House security panel approves new 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 tents and makeshift barriers currently used to screen visitors, staff, and contractors.

Located beneath Sherman Park, southeast of the White House, 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 structure operational by July 2028.

The move follows increased security concerns regarding President Donald Trump, including multiple assassination attempts during his 2024 campaign and a fatal shooting involving a man who opened fire near a security checkpoint in May.