White House Commences Demolition of East Wing for New Banquet Hall
Renovation efforts has commenced on a portion of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as work move forward for the building of a new presidential banquet hall.
Laborers commenced demolition of large sections of a protected entrance and windows in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being characterized as a "full upgrade" of the facility.
The quarter-billion dollar banquet hall construction was previously described as being "positioned adjacent to" the current building without altering its architectural integrity.
"It won't impact with the existing structure. It will not. It will be adjacent but not attached - and pays total respect to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was declared in a previous announcement. "It's my cherished. It's my favorite place. I love it."
The building initiative was disclosed through social media, with declaration that "ground has been broken" on the "highly anticipated" ballroom space.
"For longer than 150 years, each chief executive has dreamt about having a Grand Hall at the White House to accommodate people for major events, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was stated in the announcement.
The initiative is being financed independently by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements.
The Executive Mansion has acted as the traditional residence of the US president for multiple generations. The East Wing was first built in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942.
From the south side of the facility, observers could see several large pieces of work vehicles - some adorned with American banners - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The protected entrance, which spans much of the eastern section's southern exposure, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with construction waste and metal cables easily seen from a considerable distance away.
The demolition work had brought a limited group of interested observers who halted to question photographers and reporters about the ongoing work.
One individual, who was displaying a protective gear and a sign with an critical message on it, voiced her concern. 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. "Observe the changes to it!"
