🔗 Share this article Executive Mansion Commences Tearing Down of Eastern Section for New Event Space Construction activity has commenced on a section of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as planning advance for the building of a planned presidential event space. Workers started removing extensive areas of a covered entryway and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being labeled a "full upgrade" of the facility. The substantial investment banquet hall construction was previously described as being "located near" the present facility without modifying its original design. "It won't disrupt with the existing structure. It won't be. It will be close but not touching - and shows complete deference to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was stated in a earlier comment. "It's my favorite. It's my beloved spot. I adore it." The building initiative was revealed through social media, with announcement that "construction has begun" on the "long-awaited" ballroom space. "For over 150 years, each chief executive has envisioned having a Grand Hall at the White House to accommodate people for significant gatherings, official functions, etc," was stated in the declaration. The initiative is being supported through private means by "numerous dedicated supporters" according to official statements. The White House has acted as the iconic dwelling of the American leader for two centuries. The East Wing was originally constructed in 1902 and was last modified in 1942. From the southern exposure of the building, witnesses could see numerous significant units of building machinery - several featuring American banners - situated adjacent to the East Wing. The covered entryway, which extends across the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with construction waste and industrial cords easily seen from several hundred meters away. The construction activity had drawn a modest gathering of curious onlookers who halted to question photographers and reporters about the present operations. One woman, who was displaying a face covering and a sign with an opposing slogan on it, expressed her dismay. She did not identify herself. "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 positioned in the vicinity. "Observe the changes to it!"