🔗 Share this article White House Starts Demolition of East Wing for New Ballroom Construction activity has begun on part of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as planning move forward for the construction of a new executive event space. Construction crews started removing large sections of a covered entryway and windows in the eastern section earlier this week, with the construction being labeled a "total renovation" of the facility. The substantial investment banquet hall construction was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the present facility without modifying its historic appearance. "It won't impact with the present facility. It shall not. It will be adjacent but not connected - and pays total respect to the present facility, which I'm the biggest fan of," was stated in a recent statement. "It's my cherished. It's my favorite place. I cherish it." The construction project was disclosed through social media, with announcement that "construction has begun" on the "long-awaited" banquet facility. "For more than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has envisioned having a Event Space at the White House to welcome visitors for significant gatherings, official functions, and more," was written in the announcement. The initiative is being supported through private means by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to public announcements. The White House has functioned as the traditional residence of the nation's chief executive for 200 years. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was last modified in 1942. From the southern exposure of the facility, observers could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - some adorned with American banners - situated adjacent to the eastern section. The sheltered access point, which extends across the East Wing's southern exposure, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with demolition materials and industrial cords easily seen from several hundred meters away. The renovation efforts had attracted a modest gathering of curious onlookers who halted to question journalistic staff about the present operations. One woman, who was wearing a face covering and a poster with an opposing statement on it, shared her disapproval. She chose to remain anonymous. "I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she gestured at the White House from behind a yellow van that was stationed close by. "Look what he's doing to it!"