WASHINGTON, D.C. : White House Plan a Nod to Jefferson

After six months reviewing modern suggestions, the Park Service turned to an old expert on the capital, Thomas Jefferson, for guidance on turning Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House into a people’s park. Ever since a two-block section of the street was closed a year ago amid security concerns, planners have struggled with how to protect the White House. The result is a plan that emphasizes security but tries to keep it unobtrusive. The principal change would involve tearing out the asphalt in front of the White House and replacing it with a gently arcing promenade bordered by grass and trees, a concept advanced by Jefferson 200 years ago. Jefferson also contributed the design of a lower wall and fence around the mansion. The plan must still be approved; a public-comment period now begins.