The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) is responsible for approving new construction in the Washington, D.C. metro region. While the NCPC does not oversee demolition within the District, the commission is expected to review plans for new construction at the White House. After shuttering for more than a month as a result of the government shutdown, the next public meeting of the NCPC is scheduled to occur on December 4. The commission typically meets on the first Thursday of the month, and construction of a ballroom at the White House does not appear on next month’s tentative agenda.

Commission meetings may be observed either online or in person without registration. Anyone wishing to provide oral testimony must register in advance, and all written comments, oral statements, and any supporting materials become part of the public record. Meetings are livestreamed, recorded, and transcribed, with all materials made available online.

The National Trust will monitor NCPC’s meeting schedule and provide updates to ensure the preservation community has access to information and opportunities to follow federal planning decisions that may affect historic resources. With ongoing interest in the White House East Wing and ballroom construction projects, a future meeting of the NCPC offers an important opportunity for those interested to participate in the public process.

More information about the NCPC can be found here. You can also review our FAQ about the construction of the White House ballroom.