ð Share this article Executive Mansion Starts Tearing Down of Eastern Section for New Ballroom Demolition work has started on part of the Executive Mansion's East Wing as preparations progress for the building of a planned executive ballroom. Workers commenced demolition of significant portions of a protected entrance and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the project being described as a "full upgrade" of the structure. The $250 million banquet hall construction was previously described as being "located near" the current building without altering its historic appearance. "It won't interfere with the current building. It will not. It will be adjacent but not attached - and pays total respect to the current structure, which I'm the biggest fan of," was announced in a previous announcement. "It's my favorite. It's my preferred location. I adore it." The construction project was revealed through online platforms, with declaration that "ground has been broken" on the "highly anticipated" event area. "For over 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has imagined having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, State Visits, among other occasions," was written in the statement. The undertaking is being privately funded by "many generous Patriots" according to official statements. The White House has acted as the historic home of the American leader for two centuries. The East Wing was initially erected in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942. From the southern exposure of the structure, witnesses could see several large pieces of construction equipment - some adorned with national symbols - positioned near the East Wing. The sheltered access point, which spans much of the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with construction waste and industrial cords clearly visible from a considerable distance away. The construction activity had brought a limited group of interested observers who halted to question journalistic staff about the present operations. One individual, who was sporting a protective gear and a sign with an anti-administration message on it, expressed her dismay. She chose to remain anonymous. "I don't like it," she said - apparently addressing no one specifically - as she gestured at the White House from near a yellow vehicle that was positioned in the vicinity. "Look what he's doing to it!"