Washington, Aug 1 (UNI) The White House has announced plans to build a US$ 200 million new ballroom, fulfilling an often-repeated desire of US President Donald Trump.
The new ballroom will be built alongside a “modernised” East Wing of the White House, which currently houses the offices of First Lady Melania Trump and other key White House posts.
The money will be donated directly by Trump and other so-far anonymous donors, with work beginning in September, according to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, as per BBC.
Trump has repeatedly promised to build a “beautiful” ballroom at the White House, and in 2016 offered to pay $100 mn during Barack Obama’s administration – which the then-President rejected.
In a briefing for reporters at the White House on Thursday, Ms Leavitt said that the “much needed and exquisite addition” to the White House will be approximately 90,000 (8,360 sq m) with a seating capacity of about 650.
The new ballroom, Ms Leavitt added, would also eliminate the need for a “large and unsightly tent” to be installed for state dinners and other large events – which sometimes include world leaders.
According to Ms Leavitt, construction is expected to be completed “long before” the end of Trump’s term in office in January 2029.
