PRESS RELEASE

The NTHP: Make America Real Again

NATIONAL TRUST for HISTORIC PRESERVATION

The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) has opened public comments on the proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition to the White House.

Written comments are due March 4 at Noon ET.

[embed]Public Comment Period Open: White House Ballroom Proposal | National Trust for Historic… The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) has opened the public comment period on the East Wing Modernization…savingplaces.org

Press Release

Public Comment Period Open: White House Ballroom Proposal

The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) has opened the public comment period on the East Wing Modernization Project, including the proposed construction of a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition to the White House complex.

Written comments are due March 4, 2026 at Noon ET. Members of the public may also apply to provide oral testimony at the virtual NCPC meeting on March 5, 2026.

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.

Why This Moment Matters

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 NCPC and the Commission of Fine Arts, comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and receive congressional approval. These safeguards exist to ensure transparency, accountability, and meaningful public input.

Public input should occur before construction makes the outcome irreversible. As National Trust President and CEO Carol Quillen has stated: “The American people deserve an opportunity to provide comment and shape the project.”

Additional Resources

• NCPC East Wing Modernization page
• NCPC March 5 agenda, including project materials
• More National Trust resources related to the White House Construction Project

How to Submit Written Comments

• Public Comment Deadline: March 4, 2026 (Noon ET)
• Visit the NCPC participation page.
• Select the blue “Submit Written Comments” button.
• When completing the form, select “East Wing Modernization” for the “Select Projects” field dropdown.
• Comments made be submitted as plain text or as a PDF.

How to Register to Speak

• Speaker Registration Deadline: February 25, 2026 (Noon ET)
• Visit the NCPC participation page.
• Select the blue “Register to Speak at a Meeting” button.
• When completing the form, select “East Wing Modernization” for the “Select Projects” field dropdown.
• The meeting will be virtual but you must register in advance to speak.
• Comments made be submitted as plain text or as a PDF.