Public Comment Period: White House Ballroom Proposal
Members of the public have the opportunity to provide input on the East Wing Modernization Project, including the proposed construction of a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition to the White House complex.
The White House is a National Historic Landmark and National Park, owned by the American people and stewarded by the National Park Service. It has been home to our presidents since 1800 and is perhaps the most significant historic site in the United States. Before nationally significant places are permanently altered, the public deserves an opportunity to be heard and to help shape decisions that affect our shared national heritage.
This is a legally required federal review process, and public participation is essential. Major construction projects in Washington, D.C. must be reviewed by the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts (CFA), comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and receive congressional approval. These safeguards exist to ensure transparency, accountability, and meaningful public input.
“The American people deserve an opportunity to provide comment and shape the project.”
National Trust President and CEO Carol Quillen
Crucial Insights and Viable Alternatives for a More Sensitive White House Ballroom
Recorded February 25, 2026. Featuring National Trust trustees and fellows of The American Institute of Architects, David Scott Parker and Bill Bates, who share design modifications to protect the carefully balanced classical design of the White House. The conversation was facilitated by Tom Mayes, the chief legal officer of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Resources and Information
Additional Resources
- Public Testimony of Carol Quillen before the National Capital Planning Commission (3/5/2026)
- National Trust Comments Submitted to NCPC (2/23/2026)
- David Scott Parker, FAIA Comments to Commission of Fine Arts (2/18/2026)
- History of Modifications to the White House (PDF)
- Construction of the White House Ballroom: Frequently Asked Questions
- National Trust resources related to the White House Construction Project
National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC)
- East Wing modernization and ballroom addition were on the agenda for the March 5 meeting. The detailed agenda, list of speakers, and submitted materials are available on the NCPC website.
- Public comment period ended March 4. Read the National Trust Comments Submitted to NCPC.
- National Trust President and CEO Carol Quillen spoke during the meeting. (Read these prepared remarks).
- The meeting was recorded and will be posted on the NCPC video page in 3-5 days.
U.S. Commission of Fine Arts (CFA)
- East Wing modernization and ballroom addition were on the agenda for the February 19 meeting. Materials for this meeting including submitted documents are available on the CFA website.
- Public comment period ended February 18. Read the statement from Carol Quillen in response to the February 19 CFA Meeting.
Now is the time for preservation advocates to engage directly with your members of Congress and elevate the importance of historic preservation in your communities.
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