🔗 Share this article White House Commences Removal of East Wing for New Event Space Construction activity has begun on a portion of the White House's eastern section as planning move forward for the building of a new executive event space. Workers began tearing down extensive areas of a protected entrance and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the facility. The $250 million event space expansion was earlier characterized as being "located near" the existing structure without changing its original design. "It won't impact with the current building. It will not. It will be adjacent but not connected - and shows complete deference to the current structure, which I'm the strongest supporter 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 online platforms, with confirmation that "work has commenced" on the "much-needed" ballroom space. "For more than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has imagined having a Grand Hall at the White House to host guests for major events, official functions, etc," was stated in the declaration. The initiative is being financed independently by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to public announcements. The White House has served as the historic home of the American leader for two centuries. The eastern section was initially erected in 1902 and was last modified in 1942. From the southern exposure of the facility, observers could see multiple substantial items of construction equipment - several featuring US flags - located close to the East Wing. The covered entryway, which extends across the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be experiencing extensive removal, with demolition materials and metal cables readily apparent from several hundred meters away. The construction activity had brought a small number of interested observers who stopped to ask media personnel about the current activities. One individual, who was wearing a protective gear and a poster with an critical slogan on it, expressed her dismay. She chose to remain anonymous. "I don't like it," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she pointed toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was stationed close by. "Look what he's doing to it!"