Executive Mansion Starts Demolition of Eastern Section for New Event Space
Construction activity has begun on a section of the White House's East Wing as work advance for the construction of a planned presidential banquet hall.
Laborers started removing extensive areas of a covered entryway and window structures in the East Wing earlier this week, with the construction being labeled a "total renovation" of the building.
The quarter-billion dollar banquet hall construction was previously described as being "located near" the current building without modifying its historic appearance.
"It won't impact with the current building. It shall not. It will be adjacent but not connected - and demonstrates full consideration to the current structure, which I'm the greatest admirer of," was declared in a previous announcement. "It's my favorite. It's my favorite place. I love it."
The building initiative was disclosed through social media, with confirmation that "construction has begun" on the "much-needed" ballroom space.
"For longer than 150 years, each chief executive has imagined having a Grand Hall at the White House to welcome visitors for grand parties, official functions, among other occasions," was stated in the statement.
The project is being supported through private means by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements.
The White House has acted as the traditional residence of the nation's chief executive for 200 years. The eastern section was originally constructed in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the facility, witnesses could see numerous significant units of work vehicles - multiple displaying US flags - located close to the eastern section.
The protected entrance, which spans much of the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be being stripped, with concrete debris and industrial cords easily seen from several hundred meters away.
The demolition work had drawn a modest gathering of interested observers who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the present operations.
One woman, who was displaying a protective gear and a sign with an critical statement on it, voiced her concern. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I'm opposed," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she gestured at the White House from behind a yellow van that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"
