Trump administration plans over $900 million in White House renovations
Administration shifted hundreds of millions into White House repair accounts and plans multiple new projects including an East Wing ballroom and a heliport.
The Trump administration is planning to spend at least $900 million on construction and renovation projects at the White House complex, with most of the money expected to come from taxpayers rather than a fresh appropriation by Congress.
According to budget records, funds have been moved into the Executive Residence’s repair and restoration account through transfers from federal agencies and private donations, rather than by seeking a new, direct appropriation from Congress. The administration describes the package as a series of "modernization projects."
Planned works listed by the administration include a ballroom in the East Wing, refurbishment of Lafayette Square, construction of a heliport, a new visitor security screening center and other upgrades. The total estimated price for the program reaches at least $927 million.
Court ruling and legal fight
An appellate court recently ruled that congressional approval is required for the East Wing ballroom project, writing that “Congress has the exclusive authority to regulate the construction and demolition of White House structures,” a passage authored by Judges Patricia A. Millet and Bradley N. Garcia in their decision. President Donald Trump said he would appeal that ruling.
The construction of the East Wing ballroom has been blocked by the court, and the dispute is headed toward the Supreme Court. The White House has not published aggregate costs for the projects nor disclosed full details about the major funding sources.
White House spokesman Davis Ingle said the projects are being carried out “in a manner consistent with” congressional intent. “President Trump continues to carry out long-overdue and necessary renovations of the People’s House,” Ingle added, saying the White House “will be appropriately majestic and will remain in excellent condition for generations to come.”
Budget documents show the administration transferred $875 million into the Executive Residence maintenance account since Mr. Trump took office, compared with annual appropriations of about $2.5 million in recent years. The records also indicate contracts have been funneled through the Executive Residence, which is not subject to the same public disclosure rules as many federal agencies.
Photo: Andrew Leyden / Zuma Press / Profimedia
