🔗 Share this article Executive Mansion Starts Demolition of East Wing for New Banquet Hall Demolition work has commenced on a portion of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as preparations advance for the creation of a proposed presidential banquet hall. Laborers commenced demolition of extensive areas of a sheltered access point and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being characterized as a "total renovation" of the facility. The $250 million banquet hall construction was earlier characterized as being "located near" the present facility without modifying its historic appearance. "It won't interfere with the existing structure. It shall not. It'll be near but not touching - and pays total respect to the current structure, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was declared in a earlier comment. "It's my favorite. It's my beloved spot. I adore it." The construction project was disclosed through online platforms, with declaration that "ground has been broken" on the "much-needed" event area. "For more than 150 years, every President has imagined having a Event Space at the White House to welcome visitors for grand parties, diplomatic receptions, etc," was expressed in the announcement. The undertaking is being privately funded by "many generous Patriots" according to public announcements. The White House has acted as the historic home of the American leader for 200 years. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was last modified in 1942. From the southern aspect of the building, witnesses could see several large pieces of work vehicles - multiple displaying national symbols - situated adjacent to the East Wing. The covered entryway, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with demolition materials and metal cables clearly visible from multiple city blocks away. The demolition work had attracted a small number of curious onlookers who stopped to ask journalistic staff about the current activities. One individual, who was displaying a face covering and a sign with an anti-administration slogan on it, expressed her dismay. She declined to provide her name. "I disapprove," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she pointed toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"