🔗 Share this article White House Starts Demolition of Eastern Section for New Banquet Hall Construction activity has commenced on a portion of the White House's eastern section as work move forward for the building of a proposed presidential event space. Construction crews commenced demolition of significant portions of a protected entrance and glass panels in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the structure. The $250 million banquet hall construction was previously described as being "situated close to" the present facility without altering its historic appearance. "It won't disrupt with the existing structure. It will not. It will be adjacent but not touching - and demonstrates full consideration to the existing building, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was announced in a earlier comment. "It's my favorite. It's my preferred location. I love it." The construction project was revealed through digital channels, with announcement that "ground has been broken" on the "highly anticipated" ballroom space. "For over 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has envisioned having a Event Space at the White House to accommodate people for major events, diplomatic receptions, among other occasions," was stated in the declaration. The initiative is being supported through private means by "multiple committed citizens" according to recent comments. The Executive Mansion has acted as the historic home of the American leader for two centuries. The East Wing was first built in 1902 and was last modified in 1942. From the south side of the building, onlookers could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - several featuring American banners - positioned near the eastern section. The sheltered access point, which spans much of the eastern section's southern facade, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with construction waste and steel wires readily apparent from multiple city blocks away. The demolition work had drawn a limited group of fascinated spectators who halted to question journalistic staff about the ongoing work. One individual, who was wearing a protective gear and a sign with an opposing message on it, shared her disapproval. She did not identify herself. "I'm opposed," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she motioned toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was positioned in the vicinity. "Observe the changes to it!"