White House Starts Demolition of Eastern Section for New Event Space
Demolition work has started on part of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as preparations advance for the building of a proposed presidential event space.
Workers commenced demolition of significant portions of a protected entrance and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the facility.
The quarter-billion dollar event space expansion was previously described as being "positioned adjacent to" the existing structure without altering its original design.
"It won't impact with the current building. It won't be. It'll be near but not connected - and demonstrates full consideration to the present facility, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was announced in a earlier comment. "It's my favorite. It's my beloved spot. I adore it."
The construction project was disclosed through social media, with announcement that "ground has been broken" on the "long-awaited" event area.
"For longer than 150 years, each chief executive has imagined having a Grand Hall at the White House to host guests for major events, official functions, and more," was stated in the statement.
The project is being supported through private means by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to official statements.
The White House has acted as the historic home of the nation's chief executive for two centuries. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942.
From the southern aspect of the facility, witnesses could see several large pieces of building machinery - several featuring American banners - positioned near the East Wing.
The protected entrance, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with construction waste and industrial cords clearly visible from a considerable distance away.
The construction activity had drawn a small number of fascinated spectators who paused to inquire journalistic staff about the ongoing work.
One female, who was displaying a protective gear and a sign with an critical slogan on it, expressed her dismay. She declined to provide her name.
"I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she motioned toward the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was stationed close by. "Look what he's doing to it!"
