White House Commences Demolition of East Wing for Planned Banquet Hall
Renovation efforts has started on a section of the White House's East Wing as work progress for the building of a proposed executive event space.
Laborers started removing extensive areas of a covered entryway and windows in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being described as a "total renovation" of the structure.
The $250 million banquet hall construction was previously described as being "located near" the current building without modifying its original design.
"It won't interfere with the current building. It won't be. It will be adjacent but not touching - and shows complete deference to the present facility, 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 construction project was revealed through online platforms, with declaration that "ground has been broken" on the "long-awaited" banquet facility.
"For longer than 150 years, each chief executive has imagined having a Event Space at the White House to accommodate people for major events, diplomatic receptions, and more," was written in the declaration.
The initiative is being financed independently by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to recent comments.
The Executive Mansion has served as the traditional residence of the nation's chief executive for 200 years. The eastern section was initially erected in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the south side of the facility, observers could see several large pieces of construction equipment - some adorned with national symbols - positioned near the eastern section.
The covered entryway, which extends across the eastern section's south side, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with demolition materials and industrial cords easily seen from multiple city blocks away.
The construction activity had brought a small number of fascinated spectators who halted to question media personnel about the ongoing work.
One female, who was sporting a protective gear and a placard with an opposing message on it, expressed her dismay. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she gestured at the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was stationed close by. "Look what he's doing to it!"