White House Commences Removal of East Wing for Planned Event Space
Construction activity has started on part of the White House's East Wing as work progress for the building of a planned presidential banquet hall.
Laborers started removing significant portions of a sheltered access point and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being labeled a "complete modernization" of the facility.
The $250 million event space expansion was previously described as being "situated close to" the current building without changing its historic appearance.
"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 strongest supporter of," was announced in a previous announcement. "It's my preferred. It's my preferred location. I adore it."
The construction project was disclosed through social media, with announcement that "work has commenced" on the "much-needed" banquet facility.
"For over 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has dreamt about having a Grand Hall at the White House to host guests for significant gatherings, State Visits, among other occasions," was written in the announcement.
The project is being financed independently by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to recent comments.
The White House has functioned as the historic home of the nation's chief executive for two centuries. The East Wing was first built in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the building, onlookers could see numerous significant units of work vehicles - some adorned with American banners - positioned near the eastern section.
The sheltered access point, which extends across the East Wing's south side, appeared to be being stripped, with construction waste and metal cables readily apparent from multiple city blocks away.
The renovation efforts had brought a limited group of interested observers who stopped to ask journalistic staff about the current activities.
One woman, who was sporting a surgical mask and a sign with an anti-administration slogan on it, expressed her dismay. She declined to provide her name.
"I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she motioned toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was positioned in the vicinity. "Look what he's doing to it!"
