Security Blanket

DESPITE jitters about security, tourists coming to Washington these days can still enjoy all the sights: the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jersey Barrier. Actually, that last is not an official monument, but is fast becoming the symbol of post-September 11 Washington. Jersey barriers—the long, low concrete objects usually found along highway construction projects—are everywhere around town, keeping cars and trucks away from government buildings. They’re also keeping federal and local officials locked in a debate over how much security is enough.

The barriers, which can be hauled in on trucks and put into place in a few hours, are perfect for creating instant, if makeshift, security. In the days since September 11, they have popped up around the State Department, the FBI building, the U.S. Attorney’s office, and several other places. In the future, some of them will no doubt be taken away and the streets they blocked re-opened. But local officials in Washington worry that many will stay, and that still more will be replaced by permanent barriers— enough to change forever the landscape of the city.

About the Author

Byron York

Byron York is a former White House correspondent for National Review.

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DESPITE jitters about security, tourists coming to Washington these days can still enjoy all the sights: the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jersey Barrier. Actually, that last is not an official monument, but is fast becoming the symbol of post-September 11 Washington. Jersey barriers—the long, low concrete objects usually found along highway construction projects—are everywhere around town, keeping cars and trucks away from government buildings. They’re also keeping federal and local officials locked in a debate over how much security is enough.

The barriers, which can be hauled in on trucks and put into place in a few hours, are perfect for creating instant, if makeshift, security. In the days since September 11, they have popped up around the State Department, the FBI building, the U.S. Attorney’s office, and several other places. In the future, some of them will no doubt be taken away and the streets they blocked re-opened. But local officials in Washington worry that many will stay, and that still more will be replaced by permanent barriers— enough to change forever the landscape of the city.