Executive Mansion Starts Removal of East Wing for New Banquet Hall
Construction activity has started on a portion of the White House's eastern section as planning move forward for the construction of a planned presidential ballroom.
Construction crews commenced demolition of significant portions of a covered entryway and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being labeled a "total renovation" of the structure.
The substantial investment event space expansion was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the current building without altering its original design.
"It won't interfere with the existing structure. It shall not. It'll be near but not attached - and demonstrates full consideration to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was announced in a previous announcement. "It's my preferred. It's my preferred location. I cherish it."
The renovation work was announced through social media, with announcement that "ground has been broken" on the "long-awaited" event area.
"For more than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Grand Hall at the White House to host guests for major events, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was written in the statement.
The project is being financed independently by "many generous Patriots" according to recent comments.
The White House has functioned as the traditional residence of the US president for two centuries. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the structure, witnesses could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - several featuring national symbols - situated adjacent to the East Wing.
The protected entrance, which extends across the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be being stripped, with concrete debris and metal cables clearly visible from several hundred meters away.
The renovation efforts had brought a small number of fascinated spectators who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the current activities.
One woman, who was wearing a surgical mask and a poster with an critical slogan on it, expressed her dismay. She declined to provide her name.
"I disapprove," she said - seemingly speaking to nobody in particular - as she pointed toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was positioned in the vicinity. "See the alterations to it!"