White House Starts Tearing Down of Eastern Section for New Event Space
Demolition work has started on part of the White House's eastern section as planning advance for the creation of a new presidential banquet hall.
Workers started removing large sections of a covered entryway and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the construction being described as a "complete modernization" of the facility.
The $250 million event space expansion was earlier characterized as being "situated close to" the present facility without modifying its historic appearance.
"It won't disrupt with the current building. It shall not. It will be adjacent but not touching - and pays total respect to the current structure, which I'm the greatest admirer of," was announced in a earlier comment. "It's my favorite. It's my beloved spot. I cherish it."
The construction project was announced through social media, with declaration that "construction has begun" on the "highly anticipated" ballroom space.
"For over 150 years, each chief executive has envisioned having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for significant gatherings, State Visits, etc," was written in the statement.
The undertaking is being financed independently by "multiple committed citizens" according to public announcements.
The White House has functioned as the traditional residence of the American leader for multiple generations. The eastern section was initially erected in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the structure, onlookers could see numerous significant units of work vehicles - multiple displaying national symbols - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The sheltered access point, which extends across the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be being stripped, with construction waste and industrial cords clearly visible from a considerable distance away.
The demolition work had drawn a small number of interested observers who paused to inquire journalistic staff about the present operations.
One female, who was sporting a surgical mask and a placard with an opposing message on it, voiced her concern. She declined to provide her name.
"I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she gestured at the White House from behind a yellow van that was positioned in the vicinity. "Look what he's doing to it!"
