Executive Mansion Starts Tearing Down of East Wing for Planned Ballroom
Construction activity has begun on part of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as preparations move forward for the creation of a proposed presidential banquet hall.
Construction crews began tearing down large sections of a covered entryway and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the building.
The quarter-billion dollar event space expansion was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the existing structure without changing its original design.
"It won't interfere with the existing structure. It shall not. It will be close but not connected - and shows complete deference to the present facility, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was announced in a earlier comment. "It's my favorite. It's my beloved spot. I cherish it."
The construction project was revealed through digital channels, with announcement that "work has commenced" on the "long-awaited" event area.
"For more than 150 years, every President has envisioned having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, State Visits, etc," was expressed in the statement.
The undertaking is being supported through private means by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has functioned as the traditional residence of the US president 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 multiple substantial items of construction equipment - several featuring national symbols - situated adjacent to the East Wing.
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 industrial cords easily seen from multiple city blocks away.
The demolition work had drawn a limited group of interested observers who paused to inquire journalistic staff about the present operations.
One woman, who was wearing a protective gear and a sign with an critical message on it, expressed her dismay. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I don't like it," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she gestured at the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was parked nearby. "Observe the changes to it!"
