Executive Mansion Begins Demolition of Eastern Section for Planned Ballroom
Renovation efforts has begun on part of the White House's East Wing as preparations advance for the construction of a new executive event space.
Laborers started removing extensive areas of a sheltered access point and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being described as a "complete modernization" of the building.
The quarter-billion dollar event space expansion was earlier characterized as being "located near" the present facility without modifying its historic appearance.
"It won't interfere with the present facility. It shall not. It will be close but not attached - and shows complete deference to the present facility, which I'm the biggest fan of," was declared in a previous announcement. "It's my cherished. It's my favorite place. I adore it."
The building initiative was revealed through online platforms, with declaration that "work has commenced" on the "highly anticipated" event area.
"For longer than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has dreamt about having a Event Space at the White House to host guests for significant gatherings, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was stated in the declaration.
The project is being privately funded by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has served as the traditional residence of the US president for 200 years. The eastern section was originally constructed in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the structure, onlookers could see multiple substantial items of work vehicles - some adorned with US flags - located close to the eastern section.
The covered entryway, which covers a significant portion of the eastern section's south side, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with concrete debris and industrial cords readily apparent from several hundred meters away.
The renovation efforts had drawn a modest gathering of curious onlookers who stopped to ask media personnel about the current activities.
One woman, who was sporting a protective gear and a poster with an opposing slogan on it, voiced her concern. She did not identify herself.
"I'm opposed," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she gestured at the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was parked nearby. "Look what he's doing to it!"
