White House Commences Demolition of East Wing for Planned Banquet Hall
Demolition work has started on a portion of the White House's East Wing as work move forward for the construction of a new executive ballroom.
Construction crews began tearing down significant portions of a protected entrance and windows in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being described as a "complete modernization" of the building.
The quarter-billion dollar event space expansion was initially presented as being "located near" the present facility without changing its original design.
"It won't disrupt with the present facility. It shall not. It'll be near but not attached - and shows complete deference to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was announced in a previous announcement. "It's my favorite. It's my beloved spot. I adore it."
The construction project was announced through digital channels, with announcement that "work has commenced" on the "much-needed" banquet facility.
"For over 150 years, each chief executive has imagined having a Ballroom at the White House to host guests for significant gatherings, official functions, among other occasions," was written in the announcement.
The undertaking is being supported through private means by "many generous Patriots" according to public announcements.
The White House has acted as the iconic dwelling of the US president for multiple generations. The East Wing was originally constructed in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the facility, onlookers could see multiple substantial items of building machinery - some adorned with US flags - positioned near the East Wing.
The protected entrance, which spans much of the East Wing's southern exposure, appeared to be being stripped, with construction waste and metal cables easily seen from multiple city blocks away.
The construction activity had attracted a limited group of fascinated spectators who halted to question photographers and reporters about the current activities.
One individual, who was displaying a protective gear and a placard with an critical statement on it, voiced her concern. She did not identify herself.
"I don't like it," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she motioned toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was parked nearby. "See the alterations to it!"