White House ballroom project cost estimate rises to $600 million

Records show the estimated cost of a new White House ballroom has risen to $600 million, with roughly half the amount expected to come from taxpayer-funded accounts. The project was initially announced as a $400 million initiative to be financed entirely by private donors. Construction is replacing the East Wing and is being handled by Clark Construction.

Funding breakdown March 2025 planning documents indicated $293 million would come from private sources. The remaining $307 million was allocated from Secret Service funds, the White House Military Office, and the Executive Residence. Those three accounts are financed by federal appropriations. The White House has stated that security requirements are a central element of the design.

Congressional reaction Lawmakers from both parties have expressed opposition to using taxpayer money for the project. A request for an additional $1 billion in security upgrades was rejected by the Senate. Senators cited earlier statements that the ballroom would be funded solely through private contributions.

Corporate donors had previously pledged support through the Trust for the National Mall. The project has drawn scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest involving companies that also hold federal contracts.