Perimeter to Be Set up Around National Cathedral

Washington National Cathedral officials are establishing a perimeter around the building to protect the public in anticipation of Hurricane Irene.

Engineers and stone masons are continuing damage assessments in the wake of Tuesday's earthquake, which caused significant damage at the cathedral. Three of the four spires on the central tower broke off, and there are major cracks in the flying buttresses at the cathedral's east end.

Cathedral officials said in a news release that fencing and protective perimeters will be installed by the weekend to protect staff and the public and to secure the grounds. But officials stress that they haven't found any additional damage and that the building remains structurally sound.

The cathedral will remain closed at least through Sept. 4.



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Copyright AP - Associated Press
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