Executive Mansion Starts Demolition of Eastern Section for New Ballroom
Construction activity has commenced on part of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as planning advance for the building of a proposed executive event space.
Construction crews began tearing down large sections of a covered entryway and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being labeled a "full upgrade" of the facility.
The $250 million event space expansion was previously described as being "positioned adjacent to" the current building without changing its historic appearance.
"It won't impact with the existing structure. It will not. It will be adjacent but not connected - and pays total respect to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was stated in a earlier comment. "It's my favorite. It's my preferred location. I love it."
The renovation work was revealed through online platforms, with announcement that "work has commenced" on the "much-needed" banquet facility.
"For more than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for significant gatherings, official functions, etc," was expressed in the announcement.
The project is being privately funded by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has acted as the historic home of the American leader for two centuries. The East Wing was first built in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the structure, observers could see several large pieces of work vehicles - multiple displaying American banners - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The protected entrance, which spans much of the East Wing's south side, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with concrete debris and steel wires readily apparent from a considerable distance away.
The renovation efforts had drawn a small number of curious onlookers who stopped to ask media personnel about the present operations.
One female, who was sporting a surgical mask and a sign with an anti-administration statement on it, voiced her concern. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I don't like it," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she pointed toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was parked nearby. "Look what he's doing to it!"
