Police announced on Wednesday that they have completed the removal of fencing around the outer perimeter of the Capitol, but the building itself remains protected by fencing.
“All of the fencing that surrounded the outer perimeter of the U.S. Capitol complex has been removed,” a Capitol Police spokesperson said. “Affected roads have reopened. The USCP is ready to quickly ramp up security at a moment’s notice, if needed.”
The Capitol and its surrounding streets have been ensconced in 8-foot fencing since the days following Jan. 6, when throngs of violent protesters supporting then-President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol. Police earlier this month began removing the barbed wire atop the fence and then began taking down the outer perimeter fencing.
House and Senate lawmakers have grown increasingly opposed to the fencing, which prohibits all but staff and lawmakers from accessing the Capitol. Tours have not resumed.
