Executive Mansion Starts Demolition of Eastern Section for New Event Space
Renovation efforts has begun on a portion of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as preparations move forward for the construction of a planned presidential ballroom.
Laborers started removing large sections of a sheltered access point and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being labeled a "complete modernization" of the structure.
The $250 million ballroom addition was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the current building without changing its original design.
"It won't disrupt with the existing structure. It shall not. It will be close but not touching - and shows complete deference to the existing building, which I'm the biggest fan of," was announced in a previous announcement. "It's my cherished. It's my beloved spot. I adore it."
The renovation work was revealed through social media, with confirmation that "work has commenced" on the "long-awaited" ballroom space.
"For longer than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Grand Hall at the White House to welcome visitors for major events, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was expressed in the announcement.
The undertaking is being supported through private means by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to recent comments.
The White House has functioned as the iconic dwelling of the American leader for two centuries. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the facility, witnesses could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - some adorned with American banners - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The protected entrance, which spans much of the eastern section's south side, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with construction waste and steel wires readily apparent from a considerable distance away.
The renovation efforts had drawn a limited group of curious onlookers who halted to question journalistic staff about the present operations.
One woman, who was wearing a surgical mask and a placard with an anti-administration statement on it, voiced her concern. She declined to provide her name.
"I don't like it," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she gestured at the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was parked nearby. "Observe the changes to it!"
