Executive Mansion Starts Removal of East Wing for Proposed Banquet Hall
Renovation efforts has begun on part of the White House's East Wing as preparations advance for the construction of a planned presidential banquet hall.
Workers commenced demolition of extensive areas of a covered entryway and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being described as a "total renovation" of the structure.
The quarter-billion dollar event space expansion was earlier characterized as being "positioned adjacent to" the present facility without altering its historic appearance.
"It won't impact with the present facility. It will not. It will be adjacent but not connected - and demonstrates full consideration to the present facility, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was stated in a earlier comment. "It's my cherished. It's my favorite place. I cherish it."
The construction project was disclosed through social media, with confirmation that "construction has begun" on the "highly anticipated" event area.
"For over 150 years, every President has imagined having a Event Space at the White House to host guests for significant gatherings, official functions, etc," was expressed in the announcement.
The initiative is being financed independently by "many generous Patriots" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has acted as the iconic dwelling of the US president for two centuries. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the building, onlookers could see numerous significant units of building machinery - multiple displaying American banners - located close to the East Wing.
The covered entryway, which extends across the eastern section's southern exposure, appeared to be being stripped, with demolition materials and steel wires readily apparent from multiple city blocks away.
The renovation efforts had attracted a modest gathering of curious onlookers who halted to question media personnel about the ongoing work.
One individual, who was sporting a protective gear and a placard with an opposing slogan on it, expressed her dismay. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she pointed toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"
