Executive Mansion Starts Demolition of Eastern Section for Planned Ballroom
Renovation efforts has begun on a portion of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as planning progress for the building of a new executive ballroom.
Workers began tearing down extensive areas of a sheltered access point and window structures in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "full upgrade" of the facility.
The quarter-billion dollar ballroom addition was earlier characterized as being "located near" the current building without altering its historic appearance.
"It won't impact with the current building. It shall not. It will be adjacent but not connected - 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 beloved spot. I adore it."
The renovation work was announced through social media, with announcement that "work has commenced" on the "long-awaited" banquet facility.
"For over 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has envisioned having a Event Space at the White House to welcome visitors for major events, diplomatic receptions, etc," was stated in the statement.
The initiative is being supported through private means by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements.
The White House has served as the traditional residence of the US president for 200 years. The eastern section was originally constructed in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the building, observers could see several large pieces of construction equipment - several featuring American banners - positioned near the eastern section.
The sheltered access point, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's southern exposure, appeared to be being stripped, with construction waste and steel wires readily apparent from a considerable distance away.
The renovation efforts had drawn a small number of curious onlookers who paused to inquire photographers and reporters about the present operations.
One individual, who was sporting a surgical mask and a sign with an opposing message on it, voiced her concern. She did not identify herself.
"I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she gestured at the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was parked nearby. "Observe the changes to it!"
