The renovation of the White House could cost nearly $1 billion
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump plans to spend nearly $1 billion on construction and renovation work at the White House, including a new, large ballroom. It is set to replace a significant portion of the residence’s East Wing. Al Jazeera English reports this, citing documents obtained by The Washington Post.
The White House stated that the work has long been necessary and is related to the security of the president, the residence grounds, and certain security infrastructure facilities. White House spokesperson Davis Ingle also cited recent security incidents—including attempted attacks on the president—as well as preparations for the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.
According to Ingle, the work is being carried out in coordination with the U.S. Secret Service and the White House Military Office. He also stated that approximately $400 million for the new ballroom is being provided by President Trump and “generous American patriots.”
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According to The Washington Post, approximately $875 million has been allocated to the White House renovation and restoration fund. Typically, the fund contains only a few million dollars earmarked for routine maintenance and repairs. About $500 million came from the Secret Service and the White House Military Office, with another $305 million coming from private donations. The source of approximately $70 million is not specified in the documents.
The project has drawn the attention of lawmakers and the courts due to concerns that private companies seeking government contracts may be funding the work in exchange for government favor. Last week, a federal judge in Washington ordered work on the ballroom to be halted, stating that under current law, such work requires congressional approval. In June, the organization Public Citizen reported that corporate donors to the project had received more than $50 billion in government contracts over the previous six months.
