🔗 Share this article White House Starts Removal of Eastern Section for Planned Ballroom Construction activity has started on part of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as planning advance for the building of a proposed presidential ballroom. Laborers commenced demolition of extensive areas of a sheltered access point and windows in the East Wing earlier this week, with the construction being described as a "complete modernization" of the facility. The substantial investment ballroom addition was initially presented as being "located near" the current building without altering its historic appearance. "It won't interfere with the existing structure. It won't be. It'll be near but not touching - and demonstrates full consideration to the present facility, which I'm the biggest fan of," was declared in a recent statement. "It's my preferred. It's my preferred location. I love it." The building initiative was announced through digital channels, with announcement that "construction has begun" on the "highly anticipated" ballroom space. "For over 150 years, each chief executive has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to host guests for major events, State Visits, etc," was expressed in the statement. The project is being privately funded 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 originally constructed in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942. From the south side of the building, witnesses could see several large pieces of construction equipment - some adorned with US flags - situated adjacent to the East Wing. The protected entrance, which extends across the eastern section's southern facade, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with construction waste and steel wires clearly visible from several hundred meters away. The demolition work had drawn a modest gathering of fascinated spectators who paused to inquire photographers and reporters about the current activities. One woman, who was sporting a protective gear and a poster with an anti-administration slogan on it, shared her disapproval. She chose to remain anonymous. "I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she motioned toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"