President Trump announced the start of a major renovation project at the White House, with demolition work underway on part of the historic East Wing to make room for a new 90,000-square-foot ballroom.
The expansion, estimated at $250 million and privately funded, will sit adjacent to the Executive Residence and feature seating for up to 900 guests—surpassing any event space previously housed at the White House. Trump described the build as fulfilling a “150-year-wish” for a presidential ballroom and emphasized that taxpayers would not bear the cost.
Construction crews have begun dismantling portions of the East Wing façade, including the visitors’ entrance and a section facing the Treasury building. This marks the first major structural change to the White House complex since the 1940s.
White House officials say the project is part of a broader modernization effort to host large-scale state functions and international summits. Opponents, including historic preservationists and Democratic lawmakers, criticized the timing and scope of the renovation, arguing it diverts attention and resources away from pressing national issues.