Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum has directed the National Park Service to carry out an Executive Order from President Donald J. Trump, which seeks to improve public safety and cleanliness of NPS lands in Washington, D.C. This initiative focuses on enhancing public spaces, addressing crime, and making the capital more appealing for residents and tourists.
President Trump’s order, titled "Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful", requires a comprehensive effort to upgrade federal parks managed by the National Park Service. This involves graffiti removal, improved park maintenance, and support for local law enforcement to tackle safety issues, especially violent crime and homelessness.
"Washington, D.C. stands as a powerful symbol of our nation's unity and strength and it is essential that we safeguard its beauty while ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents," said Secretary Burgum. "With the signing of this Executive Order, we are following President Trump’s directive to clean up our National Park Service lands and ensure the safety of this great city. These actions will help improve the experience for those who call D.C. home, as well as the millions who visit our nation's capital each year."
Additionally, the directive focuses on protecting national monuments, reflecting similar priorities outlined in earlier Trump administration policies. The Department of the Interior will work alongside local government to prioritize the restoration of public spaces like the National Mall, which are integral to both the city's identity and the nation's history.
The Department plans to cooperate with multiple agencies to ensure the plan's effective implementation, making sure resources are aligned for success. The efforts to clean and beautify the city aim to support the overall objective of revitalizing D.C. and enhancing its reputation as a national landmark.
