White House Starts Tearing Down of Eastern Section for New Banquet Hall
Renovation efforts has begun on part of the White House's East Wing as planning progress for the construction of a new executive ballroom.
Laborers started removing extensive areas of a covered entryway and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the construction being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the facility.
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 present facility. It won't be. It will be adjacent but not connected - and demonstrates full consideration to the existing building, which I'm the biggest fan of," was announced in a previous announcement. "It's my preferred. It's my favorite place. I adore it."
The construction project was revealed through social media, with declaration that "ground has been broken" on the "much-needed" event area.
"For longer than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has envisioned having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, State Visits, etc," was expressed in the statement.
The undertaking is being supported through private means by "many generous Patriots" according to public announcements.
The White House has functioned as the historic home of the American leader for multiple generations. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the structure, onlookers could see numerous significant units of building machinery - multiple displaying US flags - situated adjacent to the East Wing.
The protected entrance, which spans much of the eastern section's southern exposure, appeared to be being stripped, with demolition materials and steel wires readily apparent from several hundred meters away.
The demolition work had drawn a small number of fascinated spectators who stopped to ask media personnel about the current activities.
One female, who was wearing a protective gear and a placard with an critical message on it, voiced her concern. She did not identify herself.
"I don't like it," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she motioned toward the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was parked nearby. "Look what he's doing to it!"
