Executive Mansion Begins Demolition of East Wing for Proposed Banquet Hall
Renovation efforts has begun on a portion of the White House's East Wing as preparations progress for the construction of a planned presidential event space.
Workers began tearing down large sections of a covered entryway and window structures in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being labeled a "total renovation" of the structure.
The substantial investment ballroom addition was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the present facility without changing its historic appearance.
"It won't impact with the present facility. It will not. It'll be near but not touching - and shows complete deference to the present facility, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was stated in a previous announcement. "It's my preferred. It's my beloved spot. I love it."
The construction project was disclosed through social media, with announcement that "ground has been broken" on the "highly anticipated" banquet facility.
"For longer than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has imagined having a Ballroom at the White House to welcome visitors for major events, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was written in the statement.
The project is being privately funded by "many generous Patriots" according to public announcements.
The Executive Mansion has functioned as the traditional residence of the American leader for multiple generations. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the south side of the facility, witnesses could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - multiple displaying national symbols - located close to the East Wing.
The covered entryway, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's southern exposure, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with construction waste and steel wires clearly visible from several hundred meters away.
The construction activity had brought a small number of interested observers who halted to question media personnel about the ongoing work.
One female, who was wearing a surgical mask and a sign with an opposing message on it, expressed her dismay. She did not identify herself.
"I don't like it," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she motioned toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was parked nearby. "Look what he's doing to it!"