Executive Mansion Begins Tearing Down of East Wing for Planned Event Space
Construction activity has started on a portion of the White House's eastern section as planning move forward for the building of a proposed presidential ballroom.
Construction crews started removing extensive areas of a sheltered access point and windows in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being characterized as a "total renovation" of the building.
The $250 million banquet hall construction was earlier characterized as being "positioned adjacent to" the existing structure without changing its historic appearance.
"It won't interfere with the current building. It won't be. It will be adjacent but not attached - and demonstrates full consideration to the current structure, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was announced in a previous announcement. "It's my preferred. It's my preferred location. I cherish it."
The building initiative was revealed through online platforms, with announcement that "ground has been broken" on the "highly anticipated" event area.
"For longer than 150 years, every President has envisioned having a Ballroom at the White House to welcome visitors for major events, State Visits, etc," was stated in the announcement.
The undertaking is being financed independently by "multiple committed citizens" according to public announcements.
The Executive Mansion has served as the historic home of the American leader for 200 years. The eastern section was originally constructed in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the facility, observers could see numerous significant units of building machinery - multiple displaying US flags - situated adjacent to the East Wing.
The covered entryway, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's southern exposure, appeared to be being stripped, with construction waste and metal cables clearly visible from multiple city blocks away.
The demolition work had drawn a modest gathering of interested observers who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the ongoing work.
One female, who was displaying a surgical mask and a poster with an opposing slogan on it, voiced her concern. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I don't like it," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she pointed toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was stationed close by. "Look what he's doing to it!"
