Executive Mansion Starts Tearing Down of East Wing for Planned Ballroom
Demolition work has started on a portion of the White House's East Wing as work move forward for the creation of a new executive event space.
Laborers commenced demolition of large sections of a sheltered access point and window structures in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being described as a "total renovation" of the building.
The quarter-billion dollar banquet hall construction was previously described as being "located near" the current building without changing its original design.
"It won't interfere with the existing structure. It will not. It'll be near but not connected - and shows complete deference to the present facility, which I'm the greatest admirer of," was announced in a recent statement. "It's my favorite. It's my preferred location. I love it."
The construction project was revealed through digital channels, with announcement that "work has commenced" on the "highly anticipated" event area.
"For longer than 150 years, each chief executive has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for significant gatherings, diplomatic receptions, and more," was written in the announcement.
The project is being privately funded by "multiple committed citizens" according to public announcements.
The Executive Mansion has functioned as the traditional residence of the nation's chief executive for multiple generations. The East Wing was originally constructed in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the structure, onlookers could see several large pieces of building machinery - several featuring American banners - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The protected entrance, which extends across the East Wing's south side, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with concrete debris and metal cables easily seen from several hundred meters away.
The demolition work had brought a limited group of interested observers who halted to question photographers and reporters about the present operations.
One individual, who was sporting a protective gear and a placard with an anti-administration statement on it, shared her disapproval. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I'm opposed," she said - seemingly speaking to nobody in particular - as she motioned toward the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was positioned in the vicinity. "Observe the changes to it!"