🔗 Share this article White House Begins Tearing Down of East Wing for New Ballroom Renovation efforts has started on a section of the White House's eastern section as work move forward for the construction of a planned executive banquet hall. Workers started removing extensive areas of a protected entrance and windows in the East Wing earlier this week, with the renovation being labeled a "complete modernization" of the structure. The substantial investment ballroom addition was previously described as being "positioned adjacent to" the current building without modifying its architectural integrity. "It won't impact with the current building. It shall not. It'll be near but not connected - and shows complete deference to the present facility, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was stated in a recent statement. "It's my preferred. It's my beloved spot. I love it." The renovation work was announced through online platforms, with confirmation that "ground has been broken" on the "much-needed" banquet facility. "For more than 150 years, every President has imagined having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for major events, official functions, etc," was stated in the statement. The project is being financed independently by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements. The White House has served as the traditional residence of the nation's chief executive for two centuries. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942. From the southern aspect of the facility, observers could see numerous significant units of building machinery - several featuring American banners - located close to the East Wing. The protected entrance, which extends across the East Wing's south side, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with construction waste and metal cables easily seen from multiple city blocks away. The renovation efforts had attracted a modest gathering of curious onlookers who paused to inquire journalistic staff about the ongoing work. One woman, who was sporting a surgical mask and a poster with an anti-administration slogan on it, voiced her concern. She chose to remain anonymous. "I don't like it," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she pointed toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"