White House Starts Demolition of Eastern Section for Proposed Event Space
Construction activity has started on a portion of the White House's East Wing as work advance for the creation of a new executive event space.
Workers began tearing down extensive areas of a sheltered access point and windows in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being labeled a "total renovation" of the structure.
The quarter-billion dollar event space expansion was previously described as being "situated close to" the current building without altering its original design.
"It won't interfere with the existing structure. It will not. It will be close but not connected - and shows complete deference to the present facility, which I'm the greatest admirer of," was declared in a recent statement. "It's my cherished. It's my beloved spot. I adore it."
The construction project was announced through digital channels, with declaration that "construction has begun" on the "much-needed" banquet facility.
"For longer than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has envisioned having a Grand Hall at the White House to accommodate people for major events, State Visits, etc," was expressed in the declaration.
The undertaking is being supported through private means by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements.
The White House has acted as the iconic dwelling of the US president for multiple generations. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was last modified in 1942.
From the southern exposure of the structure, observers could see numerous significant units of building machinery - multiple displaying national symbols - situated adjacent to the eastern section.
The sheltered access point, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's southern exposure, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with concrete debris and metal cables clearly visible from several hundred meters away.
The construction activity had brought a small number of interested observers who paused to inquire photographers and reporters about the current activities.
One individual, who was wearing a protective gear and a poster with an critical message on it, expressed her dismay. She chose to remain anonymous.
"I don't like it," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she motioned toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was positioned in the vicinity. "Observe the changes to it!"
