Satellite images from Thursday reveal that the eastern wing of the White House has been completely demolished as preparations commence for a grand new event hall, estimated to cost around $300 million.
Images from Planet Labs indicate that a pile of rubble now occupies the area where the iconic structure once stood.
This full demolition of part of one of the world’s most famous landmarks contrasts with former President Trump’s earlier remarks about a partial demolition.
When he unveiled his plan in July, Trump stated that the 90,000-square-foot event hall “would not interfere with the existing building,” and noted that it would be “close but not touching.”
However, as demolition began this week, Trump announced on Wednesday that after consulting with architects, he concluded that a complete removal of the structure was preferable to a partial one.
He added that the cost for constructing the new event hall would reach $300 million, which is an increase from the $250 million figure previously mentioned by the White House, and the $200 million estimated in July.
Caroline Levitt, the White House spokesperson, confirmed to a reporter from Agence France-Presse that $300 million is now the final construction cost, emphasizing that “it will not cost taxpayers anything.”
Trump reaffirmed that the funding for the hall, which will be used for hosting official dinners and large events, will be entirely sourced from private donations, including contributions from himself.
The list of donors released by the White House includes major American tech companies such as Amazon, Apple, Google, and Meta, as well as Lockheed Martin from the defense sector.
Individual contributors also include the family of Howard Lutnick, who served as the Commerce Secretary under Trump.