Executive Mansion Begins Tearing Down of Eastern Section for Proposed Ballroom
Renovation efforts has started on a portion of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as work move forward for the construction of a proposed executive event space.
Workers began tearing down significant portions of a sheltered access point and window structures in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being labeled a "total renovation" of the structure.
The substantial investment event space expansion was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the current building without altering its original design.
"It won't impact with the present facility. It shall not. It'll be near but not touching - and pays total respect to the current structure, which I'm the greatest admirer of," was announced in a recent statement. "It's my favorite. It's my favorite place. I cherish it."
The construction project was disclosed through social media, with announcement that "construction has begun" on the "much-needed" banquet facility.
"For over 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has imagined having a Event Space at the White House to welcome visitors for grand parties, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was written in the statement.
The initiative is being supported through private means by "multiple committed citizens" according to recent comments.
The White House has functioned as the historic home of the American leader for 200 years. The eastern section was first built in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the south side of the building, witnesses could see several large pieces of building machinery - several featuring American banners - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The protected entrance, which extends across the East Wing's south side, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with concrete debris and steel wires readily apparent from multiple city blocks away.
The renovation efforts had attracted a limited group of curious onlookers who halted to question media personnel about the ongoing work.
One female, who was displaying a face covering and a sign with an opposing statement on it, voiced her concern. She declined to provide her name.
"I'm opposed," she said - seemingly speaking to nobody in particular - as she pointed toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was parked nearby. "Look what he's doing to it!"