DES MOINES, Iowa -- Fences are going up around the Iowa governor's mansion in Des Moines.
The Iowa Department of Public Safety says fences around Terrace Hill have been considered since 2017, and were part of a U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommendation in 2020.
The Department of Public Safety says widespread threats have been made to a number of elected officials including Governor Kim Reynolds.
“Security enhancements to Terrace Hill benefit all future governors,” says Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens. “Terrace Hill serves as the family home for our Governors and their families, and we need to provide the safest environment possible for them. These enhancements are part of an overall state initiative to improve the security footprint at our state facilities.”
Public Safety says a foiled attempt to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer reinforced its concerns around Terrace Hill
Despite the new fencing, DPS says Terrace Hill is "Iowa's Home" and public tours are available Tuesday through Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
They say tour reservations must be made 48 hours in advance and can be made by calling 515-242-5841.