White House Begins Demolition of Eastern Section for New Ballroom
Renovation efforts has commenced on a portion of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as preparations progress for the construction of a new executive ballroom.
Workers began tearing down large sections of a covered entryway and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being characterized as a "total renovation" of the building.
The quarter-billion dollar banquet hall construction was earlier characterized as being "located near" the present facility without changing its architectural integrity.
"It won't disrupt with the present facility. It won't be. It will be close but not touching - and pays total respect to the current structure, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was declared in a recent statement. "It's my cherished. It's my favorite place. I cherish it."
The renovation work was disclosed through online platforms, with declaration that "construction has begun" on the "much-needed" event area.
"For longer than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Event Space at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was stated in the declaration.
The initiative is being financed independently by "multiple committed citizens" according to public announcements.
The White House has acted as the historic home of the American leader for 200 years. The eastern section was first built in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the building, witnesses could see multiple substantial items of building machinery - some adorned with US flags - positioned near the East Wing.
The protected entrance, which extends across the eastern section's southern facade, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with demolition materials and metal cables clearly visible from multiple city blocks away.
The demolition work had attracted a limited group of fascinated spectators who halted to question media personnel about the ongoing work.
One individual, who was wearing a surgical mask and a placard 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 near a yellow vehicle that was stationed close by. "Observe the changes to it!"
