White House Bunker Upgrade Revealed in Trump’s $300 Million East Wing Overhaul

The White House’s secret underground bunker will be upgraded as part of a major renovation plan. President Donald Trump confirmed the East Wing will be entirely demolished. This was reported on Wednesday. The project will make way for a massive new ballroom. It also includes modernizing the secure Presidential Emergency Operations Center.

This bunker serves as a fortified shelter for the president during emergencies. According to CBS News, specific upgrade details remain classified. The administration is moving forward with the controversial $300 million construction plan.

Ballroom Construction Draws Historic Preservation Concerns

President Trump stated the existing structure must be torn down. He explained this is necessary to build the ballroom properly. The new space will span 90,000 square feet. It aims to host large state dinners currently held in temporary tents.

However, the plan faces significant criticism. The National Trust for Historic Preservation voiced deep concerns in a letter. They worry the new construction’s size will overwhelm the main White House. The classical design balance with the East and West Wings could be permanently disrupted.

Funding and Transparency Questions Loom Over Project

The White House has selected McCrery Architects to lead the design. Clark Construction will oversee the build. AECOM will manage engineering work. President Trump recently courted billionaire backers to support the ballroom plan.

Attendees included Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman and oil magnate Harold Hamm. The President dismissed transparency questions. He claimed the project has received great reviews. He insisted his administration has been more open than any previous one.

The planned White House bunker upgrade is part of the most significant East Wing renovation in decades. This project blends heightened security needs with grand architectural ambitions. Its completion will permanently alter the iconic presidential complex.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the Presidential Emergency Operations Center?

The Presidential Emergency Operations Center is a secure bunker under the White House. It is designed to protect the president and staff during emergencies. The facility also functions as a secure communications hub.

Why is the East Wing being demolished?

The Trump administration states a full demolition is needed for the new ballroom. They argue partial renovation would not suffice. The goal is to properly construct a 90,000-square-foot event space.

Who is funding the East Wing renovation?

The project is estimated to cost $300 million. President Trump recently promoted the plan to wealthy backers at a private event. Attendees included prominent figures from finance and industry.

What are the main criticisms of the plan?

Historic preservation groups fear the new structure will overwhelm the main White House. They argue it could disrupt the building’s carefully balanced classical design. The project’s scale and transparency have been questioned.

How large will the new ballroom be?

Plans show the ballroom will seat 650 guests. President Trump has claimed the final version could accommodate nearly 1,000 people. It will replace the current need for outdoor event tents.