š Share this article White House Starts Removal of Eastern Section for Proposed Ballroom Renovation efforts has begun on a portion of the White House's eastern section as work move forward for the building of a proposed presidential ballroom. Laborers began tearing down large sections of a covered entryway and window structures in the East Wing earlier this week, with the project being characterized as a "complete modernization" of the building. The $250 million ballroom addition was previously described as being "located near" the present facility without changing its original design. "It won't disrupt with the present facility. It shall not. It'll be near but not connected - and shows complete deference to the existing building, which I'm the biggest fan of," was announced in a previous announcement. "It's my favorite. It's my beloved spot. I love it." The renovation work was announced through social media, with announcement that "ground has been broken" on the "highly anticipated" banquet facility. "For longer than 150 years, all commanders-in-chief has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to host guests for significant gatherings, official functions, among other occasions," was expressed in the statement. The project is being supported through private means by "multiple committed citizens" according to official statements. The Executive Mansion has acted as the traditional residence of the American leader for 200 years. The eastern section was initially erected in 1902 and was previously altered in 1942. From the south side of the structure, observers could see multiple substantial items of work vehicles - some adorned with US flags - located close to the eastern section. The sheltered access point, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's south side, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with concrete debris and metal cables readily apparent from multiple city blocks away. The demolition work had attracted a small number of interested observers who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the present operations. One female, who was wearing a protective gear and a sign with an critical statement on it, expressed her dismay. She declined to provide her name. "I don't like it," she said - seemingly speaking to nobody in particular - as she motioned toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was positioned in the vicinity. "See the alterations to it!"