🔗 Share this article Executive Mansion Begins Tearing Down of East Wing for Proposed Ballroom Demolition work has commenced on part of the White House's eastern section as work progress for the creation of a new executive event space. Workers commenced demolition of large sections of a covered entryway and glass panels in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being labeled a "complete modernization" of the building. The substantial investment event space expansion was earlier characterized as being "located near" the present facility without modifying its original design. "It won't interfere with the existing structure. It won't be. It will be close but not touching - and demonstrates full consideration to the current structure, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was declared in a recent statement. "It's my cherished. It's my preferred location. I adore it." The building initiative was announced through social media, with confirmation that "work has commenced" on the "highly anticipated" ballroom space. "For more than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has envisioned having a Grand Hall at the White House to accommodate people for major events, official functions, and more," was stated in the announcement. The project is being supported through private means by "many generous Patriots" according to public announcements. The Executive Mansion has served as the historic home of the US president for two centuries. The East Wing was first built in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942. From the southern exposure of the structure, witnesses could see several large pieces of building machinery - multiple displaying national symbols - located close to the East Wing. The protected entrance, which spans much of the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with demolition materials and steel wires easily seen from a considerable distance away. The demolition work had attracted a small number of curious onlookers who stopped to ask journalistic staff about the ongoing work. One female, who was sporting a protective gear and a poster with an anti-administration statement on it, expressed her dismay. She declined to provide her name. "I disapprove," she said - seemingly speaking to nobody in particular - as she pointed toward the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was stationed close by. "Observe the changes to it!"