White House Begins Demolition of Eastern Section for Proposed Event Space
Renovation efforts has begun on part of the White House's eastern section as work advance for the construction of a planned presidential event space.
Workers started removing large sections of a protected entrance and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the construction being labeled a "full upgrade" of the building.
The quarter-billion dollar ballroom addition was previously described as being "situated close to" the current building without modifying its architectural integrity.
"It won't disrupt with the current building. It won't be. It will be adjacent but not attached - and pays total respect to the present facility, which I'm the biggest fan of," was declared in a previous announcement. "It's my preferred. It's my favorite place. I cherish it."
The construction project was announced through online platforms, with announcement that "construction has begun" on the "long-awaited" event area.
"For more than 150 years, each chief executive has envisioned having a Grand Hall at the White House to host guests for significant gatherings, official functions, among other occasions," was written in the statement.
The project is being supported through private means by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has acted as the traditional residence of the nation's chief executive for 200 years. The East Wing was originally constructed in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the structure, witnesses could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - some adorned with national symbols - located close to the East Wing.
The sheltered access point, which extends across the East Wing's southern exposure, appeared to be being stripped, with demolition materials and metal cables easily seen from multiple city blocks away.
The renovation efforts had drawn a modest gathering of curious onlookers who halted to question photographers and reporters about the present operations.
One woman, who was sporting a protective gear and a placard with an anti-administration message on it, voiced her concern. She did not identify herself.
"I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she gestured at the White House from behind a yellow van that was positioned in the vicinity. "Observe the changes to it!"
