🔗 Share this article Executive Mansion Commences Removal of East Wing for Planned Banquet Hall Construction activity has commenced on a section of the White House's East Wing as planning progress for the building of a planned presidential ballroom. Workers began tearing down large sections of a sheltered access point and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being described as a "full upgrade" of the building. The $250 million event space expansion was initially presented as being "situated close to" the existing structure without altering its historic appearance. "It won't interfere with the present facility. It will not. It will be adjacent but not attached - and demonstrates full consideration to the existing building, which I'm the biggest fan of," was announced in a recent statement. "It's my favorite. It's my favorite place. I love it." The renovation work was disclosed through social media, with confirmation that "work has commenced" on the "much-needed" banquet facility. "For over 150 years, each chief executive has envisioned having a Ballroom at the White House to welcome visitors for significant gatherings, diplomatic receptions, and more," was written in the announcement. The project is being privately funded by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements. The Executive Mansion has served as the historic home of the American leader for 200 years. The eastern section was initially erected in 1902 and was last modified in 1942. From the southern exposure of the building, observers could see several large pieces of work vehicles - multiple displaying US flags - situated adjacent to the eastern section. The covered entryway, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with construction waste and metal cables readily apparent from several hundred meters away. The demolition work had attracted a limited group of curious onlookers who stopped to ask media personnel about the current activities. One woman, who was displaying a face covering and a placard with an opposing slogan on it, shared her disapproval. She declined to provide her name. "I'm opposed," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she motioned toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was positioned in the vicinity. "Look what he's doing to it!"