The U.S. Department of the Interior installs fencing around the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as a new security measure following reports of vandalism. According to multiple outlets, the fencing goes up earlier than originally planned. The Department of the Interior states that the change is intended to prevent further damage to the historic site. One report characterizes the decision as a response to an increase in vandalism and notes that the department positions the fencing as a way to protect the memorial area. The Interior Department’s spokesperson tells outlets that the fencing is added in light of the reported incidents and that the earlier schedule reflects heightened concerns about site safety and preservation. The reports indicate the fencing is intended to restrict access to the pool area while additional protective steps are implemented.