White House Starts Tearing Down of Eastern Section for New Event Space
Renovation efforts has begun on part of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as work move forward for the construction of a proposed executive banquet hall.
Laborers commenced demolition of large sections of a covered entryway and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being labeled a "full upgrade" of the facility.
The quarter-billion dollar banquet hall construction was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the existing structure without changing its original design.
"It won't impact with the current building. It shall not. It will be close but not attached - and pays total respect to the existing building, which I'm the biggest fan of," was declared in a earlier comment. "It's my preferred. It's my beloved spot. I cherish it."
The building initiative was disclosed through social media, with declaration that "work has commenced" on the "much-needed" ballroom space.
"For over 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Grand Hall at the White House to host guests for major events, State Visits, and more," was written in the declaration.
The project is being financed independently by "many generous Patriots" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has functioned as the iconic dwelling of the US president for two centuries. The East Wing was originally constructed in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the south side of the structure, observers could see multiple substantial items of work vehicles - some adorned with American banners - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The protected entrance, which extends across the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be being stripped, with construction waste and steel wires easily seen from several hundred meters away.
The construction activity had attracted a modest gathering of interested observers who halted to question media personnel about the current activities.
One individual, who was sporting a face covering and a poster with an anti-administration slogan on it, shared her disapproval. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I disapprove," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she motioned toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was parked nearby. "Look what he's doing to it!"
