Washington: The Trump administration is preparing to allocate at least $900 million towards various construction initiatives throughout the White House grounds, primarily funded by taxpayer money, as reported by media outlets on Wednesday.

According to Anadolu Agency, The Washington Post detailed that the administration has pooled funds through transfers from federal agencies and private donations, opting not to seek direct congressional appropriations for the projects. These funds have been funneled into the White House Repair and Restoration account of the Executive Residence, earmarked for what the administration refers to as "modernization projects."

The planned upgrades include the addition of an East Wing ballroom, enhancements to Lafayette Square, the construction of a helipad, a new visitor screening center, among other improvements, with the total projected cost at a minimum of $927 million. This development follows a recent federal appeals court decision mandating congressional approval for the East Wing ballroom project.

Judges Patricia A. Millett and Bradley N. Garcia emphasized in their ruling that "Congress has exclusive authority to regulate the construction and demolition of White House structures." President Donald Trump has announced his intention to appeal the court's decision.

The White House has not publicly disclosed the comprehensive cost of the proposed construction nor detailed the sources for most of the funding. White House spokesperson Davis Ingle stated that the projects are aligning with Congress's intentions, asserting that "President Trump continues to implement long-overdue and necessary renovations to beautify the People's House." Ingle also emphasized that the White House "will be properly glorified and remain in excellent condition for generations to come."

According to the report, Congress traditionally approves funding for significant White House construction projects. Budget records referenced by the newspaper reveal that the administration has directed $875 million into the Executive Residence maintenance account since President Trump assumed office, compared to the annual appropriations of $2.5 million in recent years. Additionally, the report indicates that contracts have been managed through the Executive Residence, an office not subjected to the same public disclosure requirements as most federal agencies.