Executive Mansion Commences Removal of East Wing for Proposed Banquet Hall
Construction activity has begun on a section of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as work progress for the creation of a proposed presidential ballroom.
Workers started removing large sections of a covered entryway and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being described as a "total renovation" of the building.
The $250 million banquet hall construction was initially presented as being "situated close to" the present facility without altering its original design.
"It won't disrupt with the current building. It shall not. It will be adjacent but not connected - and demonstrates full consideration to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was announced in a earlier comment. "It's my favorite. It's my preferred location. I love it."
The construction project was revealed through digital channels, with announcement that "construction has begun" on the "much-needed" event area.
"For over 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for significant gatherings, State Visits, and more," was written in the statement.
The project is being supported through private means by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to recent comments.
The White House has acted as the iconic dwelling of the US president for multiple generations. The eastern section was originally constructed in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942.
From the south side of the building, witnesses could see numerous significant units of building machinery - multiple displaying national symbols - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The covered entryway, which extends across the eastern section's southern exposure, appeared to be being stripped, with construction waste and industrial cords easily seen from multiple city blocks away.
The construction activity had attracted a modest gathering of fascinated spectators who halted to question photographers and reporters about the ongoing work.
One female, who was displaying a face covering and a sign with an anti-administration slogan on it, shared her disapproval. She declined to provide her name.
"I don't like it," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - 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!"
