• Washington is set to implement extensive security measures for President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration next week.
• Authorities are deploying 30 miles of fencing, 25,000 law enforcement officers, and numerous checkpoints to manage large crowds.
• Heightened concern revolves around potential lone-wolf attacks following recent violent incidents unrelated to the inauguration.
• Mass protests and a smaller crowd for the anti-Trump People’s March are also anticipated during the inauguration weekend.

As the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump approaches, Washington D.C. is preparing for significant security measures due to a heightened threat environment. With Reuters reporting that 30 miles (48 km) of tall black temporary fencing will be erected, along with the deployment of 25,000 law enforcement officials, the city is braced for a major influx of visitors. Security checkpoints are set to process hundreds of thousands of spectators attending the swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol and the corresponding parade to the White House. Concerns over safety heightened following recent incidents involving violence and attempts on Trump's life, such as the New Orleans attack that resulted in 14 casualties.

U.S. Secret Service Special Agent Matt McCool emphasized the current environment as one of increased vigilance, noting, "We are in a higher-threat environment" during a Monday press briefing. The inauguration will occur at the same Capitol steps where the Jan. 6, 2021, breaches took place, leading to widespread unrest as Trump supporters stormed the building. Despite the uncertainties, security officials have indicated no specific coordinated threats have been identified. Instead, they are focusing on the potential risk posed by lone wolves, referencing recent arrests including one man who attempted to bring a machete into the Capitol.

The FBI and Department of Homeland Security have advised police departments across the nation to remain alert for any copycat incidents, reminding them of the risks associated with similar attacks. "That threat of the lone actor remains the biggest justification for us being at this heightened state of alert throughout the next week," stated U.S. Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger.

A two-mile stretch of downtown Washington, from the White House to the Capitol, will be closed to vehicular traffic, with entry points blocked by concrete barriers and other heavy objects. In total, around 7,800 National Guard troops and approximately 4,000 additional officers will supplement security measures on the ground. As a result, over 70% of Washington's hotel rooms have been booked in anticipation of the event, with many residents choosing to leave the city to avoid potential congestion.

While Trump’s 2017 inauguration was characterized by substantial protests, this year’s events are also expected to generate protests. Authorities expect about 25,000 participants at the anti-Trump People’s March. Numerous rallies, including ones at the Capital One Arena, are planned throughout inauguration weekend, reflecting the tension surrounding Trump's presidency and his contentious relationship with various groups.

As Juliette Kayyem, a professor at Harvard Kennedy School and former homeland security official noted, “What you're planning for is a worst-case scenario, but my suspicion is you're not going to get it, which is good." This excerpt highlights the extensive planning involved in maintaining security while hoping for a peaceful inauguration. Optimal outcomes will see the city manage crowds effectively, ensuring both celebration and protest can occur in relative safety amid significant police presence.

For more details, visit VOA News and South China Morning Post.