🔗 Share this article Executive Mansion Commences Tearing Down of East Wing for Proposed Ballroom Construction activity has begun on a portion of the White House's eastern section as work move forward for the construction of a proposed presidential event space. Construction crews started removing extensive areas of a sheltered access point and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "full upgrade" of the facility. The quarter-billion dollar ballroom addition was previously described as being "situated close to" the existing structure without modifying its original design. "It won't interfere with the present facility. It shall not. It'll be near but not connected - and shows complete deference to the current structure, which I'm the greatest admirer of," was declared in a recent statement. "It's my preferred. It's my favorite place. I adore it." The building initiative was revealed through social media, with declaration that "work has commenced" on the "much-needed" banquet facility. "For over 150 years, each chief executive has envisioned having a Grand Hall at the White House to welcome visitors for significant gatherings, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was expressed in the declaration. The initiative is being supported through private means by "many generous Patriots" according to recent comments. The White House has acted as the traditional residence of the American leader for two centuries. The eastern section was originally constructed in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942. From the south side of the structure, witnesses could see several large pieces of building machinery - several featuring US flags - located close to the eastern section. The sheltered access point, which extends across the eastern section's south side, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with construction waste and industrial cords readily apparent from a considerable distance away. The renovation efforts had brought a modest gathering of curious onlookers who halted to question journalistic staff about the present operations. One woman, who was displaying a face covering and a placard with an anti-administration statement on it, expressed her dismay. She did not identify herself. "I'm opposed," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she gestured at the White House from behind a yellow van that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"