Trump Orders East Wing Demolition for $600 Million Ballroom as 250ft DC Arch Draws Backlash
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 20
Trump Orders East Wing Demolition for $600 Million Ballroom as 250ft DC Arch Draws Backlash
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 20
Summary
$600 million in newly disclosed costs would fund a White House ballroom replacing the East Wing, with taxpayers expected to cover half despite Trump's earlier claim that private donors would pay a $400 million bill.
A 250ft triumphal arch planned near Arlington National Cemetery has become the next flashpoint, with preservationists warning it would disrupt Washington sightlines and about 600 objection letters already sent to the Commission of Fine Arts.
$17 million Lafayette Square renovations, a $13.1 million reflecting-pool overhaul and other anniversary projects have fenced off major tourist areas around the White House and National Mall, leaving visitors complaining they are locked out.
The construction surge is tied to Trump's push to remake Washington for the US's 250th anniversary, but critics and some tourists say the projects honor Trump more than the national celebration.