White House Starts Removal of Eastern Section for New Ballroom
Renovation efforts has begun on a section of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as preparations move forward for the construction of a proposed executive ballroom.
Workers started removing significant portions of a sheltered access point and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the structure.
The quarter-billion dollar event space expansion was earlier characterized as being "located near" the existing structure without changing its original design.
"It won't disrupt with the existing structure. It won't be. It will be adjacent but not connected - and demonstrates full consideration to the present facility, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was announced in a recent statement. "It's my preferred. It's my favorite place. I love it."
The building initiative was disclosed through social media, with declaration that "work has commenced" on the "much-needed" event area.
"For longer than 150 years, every President has imagined having a Event Space at the White House to accommodate people for major events, State Visits, and more," was expressed in the statement.
The undertaking is being financed independently by "multiple committed citizens" according to public announcements.
The White House has served 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 aspect of the building, observers could see several large pieces of building machinery - multiple displaying American banners - positioned near the East Wing.
The protected entrance, which extends across the East Wing's southern exposure, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with demolition materials and industrial cords clearly visible from a considerable distance away.
The renovation efforts had drawn a small number of fascinated spectators who halted to question journalistic staff about the current activities.
One woman, who was wearing a face covering and a poster with an anti-administration statement on it, shared her disapproval. She declined to provide her name.
"I don't like it," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she motioned toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was stationed close by. "Observe the changes to it!"
