White House Starts Tearing Down of Eastern Section for New Ballroom
Construction activity has started on a section of the White House's eastern section as work advance for the construction of a new executive ballroom.
Workers began tearing down large sections of a sheltered access point and window structures in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the structure.
The $250 million banquet hall construction was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the existing structure without modifying its original design.
"It won't impact with the present facility. It will not. It'll be near but not connected - and demonstrates full consideration to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was stated in a previous announcement. "It's my preferred. It's my preferred location. I adore it."
The renovation work was announced through social media, with announcement that "work has commenced" on the "long-awaited" banquet facility.
"For more than 150 years, every President has envisioned having a Ballroom at the White House to welcome visitors for major events, State Visits, among other occasions," was written in the announcement.
The project is being supported through private means by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to public announcements.
The White House has served as the historic home of the nation's chief executive for two centuries. The East Wing was originally constructed in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the south side of the facility, witnesses could see multiple substantial items of work vehicles - some adorned with US flags - positioned near the eastern section.
The sheltered access point, which spans much of the eastern section's southern facade, appeared to be being stripped, with concrete debris and metal cables readily apparent from several hundred meters away.
The construction activity had brought a small number of curious onlookers who paused to inquire photographers and reporters about the ongoing work.
One woman, who was sporting a face covering and a sign with an opposing statement on it, shared her disapproval. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she gestured at the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was positioned in the vicinity. "See the alterations to it!"
