Executive Mansion Starts Demolition of Eastern Section for New Ballroom
Renovation efforts has begun on a portion of the White House's eastern section as work advance for the construction of a new presidential ballroom.
Workers began tearing down large sections of a sheltered access point and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being described as a "complete modernization" of the structure.
The quarter-billion dollar banquet hall construction was earlier characterized as being "situated close to" the present facility without changing its historic appearance.
"It won't interfere with the current building. It shall not. It will be adjacent but not connected - and pays total respect to the current structure, which I'm the greatest admirer of," was announced in a recent statement. "It's my cherished. It's my beloved spot. I adore it."
The construction project was announced through social media, with declaration that "construction has begun" on the "much-needed" ballroom space.
"For over 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has imagined having a Event Space at the White House to accommodate people for major events, diplomatic receptions, and more," was expressed in the declaration.
The project is being supported through private means by "multiple committed citizens" according to recent comments.
The Executive Mansion has functioned as the historic home of the US president for 200 years. The East Wing was first built in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the building, onlookers could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - several featuring US flags - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The covered entryway, which covers a significant portion of the eastern section's southern exposure, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with construction waste and industrial cords easily seen from multiple city blocks away.
The construction activity had brought a modest gathering of interested observers who paused to inquire media personnel about the ongoing work.
One female, who was sporting a surgical mask and a placard with an opposing message on it, expressed her dismay. She declined to provide her name.
"I don't like it," she said - seemingly speaking to nobody in particular - as she motioned toward the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was parked nearby. "Look what he's doing to it!"
