Shrouds and scaffolding being removed from White House North Portico

Key Points:

• Restoration work on the White House North Portico, initiated by President Trump in June, is nearing completion ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit in late September, with scaffolding being removed after months of repairs.
• The refurbishment addresses routine age and weather-related damage to the portico’s stonework and plaster, a structure originally completed in 1830 under Andrew Jackson.
• Trump highlighted the poor condition of the portico as a reason for the repairs, which are part of his broader efforts to overhaul the White House and federal properties, though many of his initiatives have faced criticism and lawsuits from historic preservationists.
• Additional projects include a newly completed helipad on the South Lawn and an ongoing, legally contested construction of a White House ballroom and underground bunker, which will add significant square footage beyond the existing footprint.
• Due to ongoing construction, Trump will host Xi’s state dinner on September 24 in existing spaces amid a construction zone, offering him a platform to promote his ballroom project despite the legal challenges.