The Trump administration plans to spend at least $900 million on construction projects at the White House, according to a Washington Post report, with funding covered primarily by taxpayers. The projects include upgrades to Lafayette Square, a new helipad, a visitor screening center, and other work that could push the total cost above $927 million.
The spending also covers a ballroom project, previously estimated at $200 million to $600 million, built in place of the East Wing, which was demolished last year. Trump has said the ballroom would be funded by private donations, though a D.C. Circuit court ruling found the decision to build it was not the executive branch’s to make unilaterally.
The administration has drawn funds from other agencies and private donors rather than seeking direct congressional appropriation.
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