Trump Gives DC a 2 Billion Dollar Makeover

Lights, camera, action! Students at Walls are getting a front-row seat to what could become Washington’s biggest makeover. From the White House to city streets, Trump is embarking on a multibillion-dollar renovation of the District.

President Donald Trump began his renovations at the White House, with the construction of a $300 million ballroom. The White House claims the project is privately funded and intended for large events, and parts of the East Wing have already been demolished to make space, raising concerns among preservationists about the history and importance of the building. The new ballroom is designed in a neoclassical style to match existing architecture and will seat roughly 650 guests.

Of the Walls students asked about the renovations, not a single student supported the demolition of the East Wing, as most raised concerns about the history it holds and how it is a national landmark. Others believe it sends a message about Trump’s presidential power that he has power that supersedes the wishes of the public, since less than 30% approve of the demolition. On the other hand, Michael Wolitz (‘29) said that we do need a ballroom up to international standards, but it should just be constructed somewhere else.

Trump’s renovations also include updates to the Rose Garden, such as paving the garden and replacing it with tiles and umbrellas similar to Mar-a-lago. Despite worries that it could harm the garden’s historic character, the changes proceeded.

Construction will continue through the year, and preservation groups are urging the White House to pause the renovations. Since Walls is located mere blocks from the White House, many students are noticing the changes firsthand. For students at Walls, the project offers a real-time look at how urban planning, preservation, and politics intersect.

President Donald Trump is asking Congress for $2 billion to “beautify” a three-mile radius around the White House and the Capitol, including resurfacing roads, upgrading street lighting, and restoring public spaces. Some fiscal conservatives in Congress are pushing back on the $2 billion price tag. Others worry about the balance between beautification and deep-rooted city issues like housing and autonomy.

Most Walls students, such as Pierce Hryniewicki (‘29), explained that there would be a minimal impact on their lives if downtown were beautified, except that it would take money away from other, more pressing issues such as housing. Finally, across the board, Walls students thought the administration should prioritize funding for Wards 7 and 8, instead of the National Guard, and make downtown more appealing.