White House Begins Removal of East Wing for Planned Banquet Hall
Demolition work has started on a portion of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as planning move forward for the construction of a planned presidential banquet hall.
Laborers started removing large sections of a covered entryway and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the construction being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the structure.
The $250 million banquet hall construction was previously described as being "located near" the current building without changing its architectural integrity.
"It won't disrupt with the existing structure. It shall not. 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 recent statement. "It's my cherished. It's my beloved spot. I love it."
The building initiative was revealed through social media, with declaration that "construction has begun" on the "much-needed" event area.
"For longer than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to host guests for major events, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was written in the announcement.
The initiative is being financed independently by "many generous Patriots" according to official statements.
The White House has functioned as the historic home of the US president for two centuries. The eastern section was first built in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the facility, witnesses could see several large pieces of building machinery - multiple displaying national symbols - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The protected entrance, which extends across the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with construction waste and industrial cords easily seen from several hundred meters away.
The renovation efforts had drawn a small number of fascinated spectators who stopped to ask journalistic staff about the ongoing work.
One woman, who was displaying a surgical mask and a placard with an anti-administration slogan on it, expressed her dismay. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I don't like it," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she pointed toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was parked nearby. "See the alterations to it!"
