Executive Mansion Starts Removal of Eastern Section for New Ballroom
Construction activity has started on a section of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as planning advance for the construction of a new executive event space.
Workers began tearing down significant portions of a covered entryway and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being described as a "full upgrade" of the building.
The $250 million ballroom addition was earlier characterized as being "located near" the present facility without altering its historic appearance.
"It won't disrupt with the current building. It will not. It will be adjacent but not connected - and pays total respect to the present facility, which I'm the biggest fan of," was announced in a recent statement. "It's my cherished. It's my beloved spot. I adore it."
The construction project was revealed through online platforms, with confirmation that "construction has begun" on the "much-needed" banquet facility.
"For over 150 years, every President has envisioned having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, official functions, and more," was stated in the statement.
The project is being privately funded by "many generous Patriots" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has served as the iconic dwelling of the nation's chief executive for 200 years. The eastern section was originally constructed in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the building, witnesses could see numerous significant units of building machinery - several featuring national symbols - located close to the eastern section.
The covered entryway, which spans much of the eastern section's southern exposure, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with concrete debris and steel wires easily seen from several hundred meters away.
The demolition work had brought a modest gathering of fascinated spectators who halted to question media personnel about the ongoing work.
One individual, who was sporting a surgical mask and a sign with an critical message on it, shared her disapproval. She did not identify herself.
"I don't like it," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she pointed toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was stationed close by. "Observe the changes to it!"
