WASHINGTON - The Interagency Task Force released its report on security measures in the nation's Capital. The report includes recommendations for Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House and also focuses on design and security plans for President's Park, the Federal Triangle, and the National Mall.

"In recent years, the proliferation of makeshift security measures has had an alarming effect on the historic beauty of the Nation's Capital," said Interagency Task Force Chairman Richard L. Friedman in a statement included in the report. "The National Capital reflects the spirit of America, but today in Washington we look like a nation in fear. We now have a condition that must be addressed to protect our values as an open and democratic society."

Key findings and recommendations include: The Task Force recommends that Pennsylvania Avenue remain closed to normal city traffic at this time. Though this removes a major east-west artery from Downtown's transportation network, the Task Force concludes that traffic congestion can be improved through a variety of transportation system management (TSM) initiatives such as traffic signal synchronization, intersection improvements, and more active enforcement of parking regulations.

The Task Force also recommends the immediate design and construction of a landscaped, civic space along the Pennsylvania Avenue right-of-way in front of the White House that respects and enhances the historic setting and views of the White House. Recommended was the implementation of a Circulator, a new transit service being planned for the downtown area on routes to be determined. A Circulator would permit a partial and limited use of Pennsylvania Avenue to allow for controlled and secure vehicular traffic in front of the White House.

The Task Force finds that replacement of lost east-west transportation capacity will be required to support the city's continued growth and vitality on a long-term basis and recommends the reopening of E Street, which was closed after the September 11 attack. In the future, street closures should not be relied upon as a primary security measure. The Task Force recommends that the National Capital Planning Commission prepare an integrated Urban Design and Security Plan for Washington's entire Monumental Core to create a secure and distinguished public realm.

The Task Force recommends that the planning and concept design of streetscape, landscape, and security for Pennsylvania Avenue and the Monumental Core be undertaken by the National Capital Planning Commission together with one or more nationally recognized urban designers. The Task Force recommends that the federal government fund all costs associated with the development and ongoing implementation of the Urban Design and Security Plan, TSM measures, a Circulator, and tunnel environmental assessments, design, and engineering. If a tunnel is built, it should be a federal obligation to fund its construction.