White House Starts Removal of East Wing for Planned Ballroom
Construction activity has commenced on a section of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as planning progress for the construction of a new executive banquet hall.
Workers started removing significant portions of a covered entryway and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the facility.
The substantial investment banquet hall construction was earlier characterized as being "located near" the current building without altering its historic appearance.
"It won't disrupt with the existing structure. It won't be. It will be adjacent but not attached - and shows complete deference to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was stated in a previous announcement. "It's my cherished. It's my favorite place. I adore it."
The renovation work was announced through social media, with announcement that "ground has been broken" on the "highly anticipated" ballroom space.
"For more than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Grand Hall at the White House to welcome visitors for significant gatherings, State Visits, and more," was expressed in the declaration.
The undertaking is being financed independently by "multiple committed citizens" according to public announcements.
The White House has served as the historic home of the nation's chief executive for 200 years. The eastern section was initially erected in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the south side of the structure, onlookers could see multiple substantial items of construction equipment - multiple displaying American banners - positioned near the eastern section.
The protected entrance, which extends across the East Wing's south side, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with demolition materials and steel wires readily apparent from several hundred meters away.
The construction activity had brought a small number of curious onlookers who halted to question journalistic staff about the ongoing work.
One woman, who was displaying a protective gear and a poster with an anti-administration message on it, voiced her concern. She did not identify herself.
"I disapprove," she said - seemingly speaking to nobody in particular - as she motioned toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was positioned in the vicinity. "Look what he's doing to it!"
