🔗 Share this article Executive Mansion Starts Tearing Down of East Wing for Planned Ballroom Renovation efforts has begun on part of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as work progress for the construction of a planned presidential event space. Workers commenced demolition of significant portions of a covered entryway and windows in the East Wing earlier this week, with the construction being described as a "full upgrade" of the structure. The quarter-billion dollar banquet hall construction was initially presented as being "situated close to" the current building without altering its original design. "It won't interfere with the present facility. It shall not. It'll be near but not touching - and shows complete deference to the current structure, which I'm the greatest admirer of," was announced in a previous announcement. "It's my cherished. It's my favorite place. I adore it." The renovation work was revealed through social media, with announcement that "ground has been broken" on the "highly anticipated" event area. "For over 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has envisioned having a Grand Hall at the White House to accommodate people for significant gatherings, diplomatic receptions, and more," was written in the declaration. The project is being supported through private means by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to public announcements. The Executive Mansion has functioned as the traditional residence of the nation's chief executive for multiple generations. The East Wing was first built in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942. From the south side of the structure, onlookers could see numerous significant units of building machinery - some adorned with US flags - positioned near the eastern section. The covered entryway, which spans much of the eastern section's southern exposure, appeared to be being stripped, with demolition materials and industrial cords readily apparent from several hundred meters away. The construction activity had brought a limited group of curious onlookers who halted to question journalistic staff about the present operations. One woman, who was sporting a face covering and a sign with an anti-administration statement on it, voiced her concern. She declined to provide her name. "I'm opposed," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she motioned toward the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was stationed close by. "Look what he's doing to it!"