But Trump’s frequently shifting instructions and suggestions have left engineers and aides confused, according to current and former administration officials. White House officials did not respond to questions about the president’s design requests for the barriers and about his conversations with engineers and border officials. Homeland Security officials declined to comment. He remains adamant that the barrier should be painted black, despite warnings that it would significantly increase construction costs and maintenance budgets. Trump told one group of aides that the metal points would cut the hands of climbers and function as a more effective deterrent.

Source: National Post May 17, 2019 15:26 UTC