Executive Mansion Commences Removal of East Wing for New Banquet Hall
Construction activity has started on part of the White House's East Wing as work progress for the building of a proposed presidential ballroom.
Construction crews began tearing down large sections of a covered entryway and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the building.
The substantial investment event space expansion was previously described as being "positioned adjacent to" the existing structure without altering its original design.
"It won't interfere with the existing structure. It shall not. It'll be near but not touching - and shows complete deference to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was declared in a previous announcement. "It's my favorite. It's my favorite place. I cherish it."
The renovation work was announced through social media, with announcement that "ground has been broken" on the "long-awaited" ballroom space.
"For more than 150 years, every President has imagined having a Ballroom at the White House to welcome visitors for grand parties, official functions, and more," was stated in the announcement.
The initiative is being financed independently by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has served as the historic home of the nation's chief executive for 200 years. The eastern section was originally constructed in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the facility, witnesses could see several large pieces of work vehicles - several featuring national symbols - positioned near the East Wing.
The protected entrance, which extends across the eastern section's southern facade, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with concrete debris and industrial cords readily apparent from several hundred meters away.
The construction activity had attracted a modest gathering of interested observers who stopped to ask media personnel about the ongoing work.
One individual, who was sporting a surgical mask and a poster with an critical slogan on it, voiced her concern. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she gestured at the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"
