New footage from the White House grounds has revealed construction crews dismantling portions of the East Wing facade as part of a massive new project — President Donald J. Trump’s long-anticipated White House Ballroom.

In an official statement, President Trump confirmed that ground has been broken for the $250 million project, describing it as a “big, beautiful ballroom” that will stand as a new landmark of American heritage and hospitality.

“Completely separate from the White House itself, the East Wing is being fully modernized as part of this process, and will be more beautiful than ever when it is complete,” Trump said. “For more than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, State Visits, etc. I am honored to be the first President to finally get this much-needed project underway — with zero cost to the American Taxpayer!”

According to the announcement, the construction is entirely funded by private donations from “generous Patriots,” American corporations, and the President himself. The ballroom, expected to serve as a venue for state functions, diplomatic receptions, and cultural events, is designed to blend historical architectural themes with modern amenities.

The East Wing renovation accompanying the ballroom project aims to modernize infrastructure while preserving the White House’s neoclassical character. Officials close to the development emphasized that the ballroom will not interfere with daily operations or public tours once completed.

The concept of a dedicated ballroom within the White House complex has been discussed for decades, dating back to the 19th century. However, previous administrations cited budget constraints and historical preservation concerns as barriers to the project. Trump’s announcement marks the first time such a plan has moved forward with visible construction.

Supporters of the initiative praised the private funding approach, highlighting its lack of taxpayer burden and its potential to enhance the prestige of official gatherings. Meanwhile, architectural experts say the ballroom could become one of the most iconic additions to the presidential complex in modern history.

No official completion date has been announced, but sources suggest the project may take up to two years to finalize. Once finished, the White House Ballroom is expected to serve as a centerpiece for state dinners, major ceremonies, and cultural celebrations — a venue, as Trump put it, “that will be happily used for generations to come.”