đź”— Share this article Executive Mansion Begins Removal of Eastern Section for Proposed Ballroom Construction activity has begun on part of the White House's East Wing as preparations progress for the building of a planned presidential ballroom. Laborers began tearing down extensive areas of a covered entryway and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the structure. The substantial investment banquet hall construction was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the present facility without modifying its original design. "It won't interfere with the existing structure. It shall not. It will be close but not attached - and pays total respect to the current structure, 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 announced through online platforms, with declaration that "work has commenced" on the "long-awaited" ballroom space. "For longer than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has envisioned having a Ballroom at the White House to welcome visitors for significant gatherings, State Visits, and more," was stated in the statement. The project is being supported through private means by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to public announcements. The Executive Mansion has functioned as the iconic dwelling of the US president for multiple generations. The eastern section was initially erected in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942. From the southern aspect of the facility, onlookers could see multiple substantial items of work vehicles - multiple displaying American banners - situated adjacent to the East Wing. The sheltered access point, which extends across the eastern section's southern exposure, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with demolition materials and metal cables easily seen from several hundred meters away. The construction activity had attracted a small number of fascinated spectators who halted to question photographers and reporters about the present operations. One woman, who was wearing a face covering and a poster with an critical slogan on it, shared her disapproval. She chose to remain anonymous. "I disapprove," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she pointed toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was positioned in the vicinity. "Look what he's doing to it!"