White House Starts Tearing Down of East Wing for Planned Event Space
Demolition work has commenced on a portion of the White House's eastern section as preparations advance for the construction of a planned executive banquet hall.
Laborers commenced demolition of large sections of a sheltered access point and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being labeled a "complete modernization" of the building.
The quarter-billion dollar ballroom addition was previously described as being "situated close to" the current building without changing its historic appearance.
"It won't interfere with the present facility. It shall not. It'll be near but not touching - and pays total respect to the existing building, which I'm the biggest fan of," was stated in a earlier comment. "It's my favorite. It's my preferred location. I adore it."
The building initiative was revealed through social media, with confirmation that "work has commenced" on the "long-awaited" ballroom space.
"For more than 150 years, every President has imagined having a Event Space at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, official functions, etc," was written in the statement.
The undertaking is being financed independently by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to public announcements.
The Executive Mansion has functioned as the iconic dwelling of the American leader for 200 years. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the structure, witnesses could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - several featuring US flags - located close to the East Wing.
The covered entryway, which extends across the eastern section's southern facade, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with concrete debris and metal cables readily apparent from a considerable distance away.
The demolition work had brought a small number of curious onlookers who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the current activities.
One individual, who was wearing a face covering and a sign with an anti-administration statement 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 near a yellow vehicle that was stationed close by. "Look what he's doing to it!"
