🔗 Share this article White House Commences Demolition of East Wing for Planned Banquet Hall Construction activity has begun on a portion of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as work move forward for the creation of a proposed executive event space. Construction crews began tearing down large sections of a sheltered access point and windows in the eastern section earlier this week, with the construction being characterized as a "full upgrade" of the building. The $250 million ballroom addition was initially presented as being "situated close to" the existing structure without modifying its architectural integrity. "It won't impact with the present facility. It won't be. It will be adjacent but not attached - and demonstrates full consideration to the existing building, which I'm the greatest admirer of," was declared in a previous announcement. "It's my favorite. It's my preferred location. I cherish it." The construction project was revealed through social media, with declaration that "ground has been broken" on the "much-needed" banquet facility. "For over 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to host guests for grand parties, diplomatic receptions, etc," was written in the statement. The undertaking is being supported through private means by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to recent comments. The Executive Mansion has acted as the historic home of the nation's chief executive for two centuries. The eastern section was initially erected in 1902 and was last modified in 1942. From the southern aspect of the structure, witnesses could see multiple substantial items of building machinery - some adorned with American banners - situated adjacent to the eastern section. The sheltered access point, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with concrete debris and industrial cords easily seen from multiple city blocks away. The demolition work had brought a small number of curious onlookers who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the present operations. One individual, who was wearing a surgical mask and a poster with an opposing slogan on it, expressed her dismay. She did not identify herself. "I disapprove," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she pointed toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was parked nearby. "Look what he's doing to it!"