WASHINGTON, D.C. —Demolition has commenced on part of the White House East Wing to make way for a new $250 million ballroom, a project championed by President Donald Trump, the Associated Press reported.
The East Wing, traditionally used for the first lady’s offices and other staff, is undergoing significant changes to accommodate the 90,000-square-foot venue, which aims to host up to 999 guests, according to AP.
Despite earlier assurances from President Trump that the construction would not interfere with the existing structure, images show heavy machinery dismantling parts of the East Wing facade, the Washington Post reported.
According to The Guardian, Trump has emphasized that the ballroom has been funded entirely by private donations from companies such as Carrier Global Corp., Apple and Amazon. He asserts that the project will not cost taxpayers. However, the demolition has raised concerns among some preservationists and lawmakers about the impact on the historic building.
Reuters reported the ballroom is designed to offer panoramic views of the Washington Monument and will feature bulletproof glass and inauguration-hosting capabilities. It is projected to be completed before the end of President Trump’s second term in January 2029, according to The Guardian.
AP said the project is the most significant structural change to the White House since the Truman Balcony in 1948.
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