WASHINGTON (AP) - There may soon be less grass on America's "front yard" under plans being considered to improve the turf on the National Mall and provide space for events.

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Under proposals presented Thursday to the National Capital Planning Commission, two square grass panels measuring 146-feet wide near the Smithsonian Metro station would be covered with gravel to host events. The existing gravel walkways along the mall also would be widened.

The Washington Examiner reports a third grass square in front of the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden also would be covered.

Soil on the mall is highly compacted from many events, making it difficult to grow grass. The National Park Service wants to replace the top soil and grass and add a low granite curb around grass panels.