White House Commences Removal of Eastern Section for Proposed Ballroom
Construction activity has commenced on a portion of the White House's eastern section as work advance for the building of a new executive ballroom.
Construction crews started removing large sections of a covered entryway and window structures in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "total renovation" of the structure.
The substantial investment event space expansion was previously described as being "situated close to" the present facility without modifying its architectural integrity.
"It won't interfere with the present facility. It will not. It will be close but not attached - and pays total respect to the existing building, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was stated in a recent statement. "It's my preferred. It's my preferred location. I cherish it."
The building initiative was revealed through social media, with declaration that "ground has been broken" on the "much-needed" ballroom space.
"For more than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has imagined having a Grand Hall at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, diplomatic receptions, etc," was written in the announcement.
The initiative is being privately funded by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements.
The White House has acted as the iconic dwelling of the US president for 200 years. The East Wing was originally constructed in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the structure, observers could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - multiple displaying national symbols - located close to the East Wing.
The covered entryway, which spans much of the eastern section's south side, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with demolition materials and steel wires readily apparent from several hundred meters away.
The demolition work had attracted a limited group of fascinated spectators who halted to question journalistic staff about the current activities.
One individual, who was wearing a surgical mask and a sign with an opposing statement on it, voiced her concern. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I disapprove," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she pointed toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"
