Executive Mansion Starts Tearing Down of East Wing for New Event Space
Demolition work has begun on a section of the White House's eastern section as preparations progress for the creation of a proposed presidential banquet hall.
Workers commenced demolition of large sections of a protected entrance and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "total renovation" of the facility.
The $250 million ballroom addition was previously described as being "located near" the current building without changing its architectural integrity.
"It won't interfere with the present facility. It shall not. It will be adjacent but not attached - and shows complete deference to the existing building, which I'm the biggest fan of," was declared in a earlier comment. "It's my cherished. It's my beloved spot. I adore it."
The construction project was disclosed through social media, with declaration that "work has commenced" on the "long-awaited" ballroom space.
"For longer than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Event Space at the White House to welcome visitors for grand parties, diplomatic receptions, etc," was written in the statement.
The project is being privately funded by "many generous Patriots" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has acted as the traditional residence of the American leader for two centuries. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the building, witnesses could see numerous significant units of work vehicles - multiple displaying US flags - positioned near the East Wing.
The protected entrance, which spans much of the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be being stripped, with concrete debris and steel wires clearly visible from a considerable distance away.
The construction activity had brought a modest gathering of fascinated spectators who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the ongoing work.
One female, who was wearing a protective gear and a placard with an anti-administration message on it, voiced her concern. She declined to provide her name.
"I don't like it," she said - seemingly speaking to nobody in particular - as she motioned toward the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was parked nearby. "Look what he's doing to it!"