Executive Mansion Begins Demolition of East Wing for New Event Space
Demolition work has begun on a portion of the White House's East Wing as planning move forward for the creation of a proposed presidential banquet hall.
Laborers commenced demolition of extensive areas of a covered entryway and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the construction being labeled a "total renovation" of the structure.
The $250 million banquet hall construction was initially presented as being "located near" the existing structure without changing its historic appearance.
"It won't interfere with the present facility. It will not. It will be close but not connected - and pays total respect to the existing building, which I'm the biggest fan of," was declared in a previous announcement. "It's my preferred. It's my beloved spot. I cherish it."
The construction project was announced through digital channels, with confirmation that "construction has begun" on the "highly anticipated" banquet facility.
"For more than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, diplomatic receptions, and more," was written in the declaration.
The undertaking is being financed independently by "multiple committed citizens" according to public announcements.
The White House has functioned as the traditional residence of the US president for two centuries. The East Wing was originally constructed in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942.
From the south side of the facility, onlookers could see several large pieces of construction equipment - several featuring US flags - situated adjacent to the East Wing.
The sheltered access point, which covers a significant portion of the eastern section's southern facade, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with concrete debris and metal cables readily apparent from a considerable distance away.
The construction activity had attracted a small number of interested observers who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the present operations.
One woman, who was wearing a face covering and a poster with an critical slogan on it, shared her disapproval. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I don't like it," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she pointed toward the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"
