President Donald Trump announced Monday he faces a "big decision" concerning the renovation of Lafayette Park, situated opposite the White House. The decision revolves around whether to replace the existing red brick pavers with gray granite.
"They’re beautiful, but they’re not the original. So we’re gonna have to make that decision," Trump stated during an event in the Oval Office. He noted that granite is "stronger" and "holds up much better" than the current pavers.
Trump has shown a consistent interest in renovation projects around the White House and the broader Washington D.C. area since taking office. According to New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman, as much as 70% of the president's focus has been on these renovation efforts. Haberman stated this in an appearance on "The Ezra Klein Show."
Past renovation projects initiated or overseen by the Trump administration include the addition of golden embellishments in the Oval Office, some of which he reportedly affixed himself. The Rose Garden was also re-paved and transformed into what has been described as a "club" similar to the patio at his Mar-a-Lago resort. Additionally, the East Wing was demolished to construct a large ballroom. Trump initially estimated the ballroom's cost at $200 million, funded by private donations. However, the projected cost has since risen to approximately $600 million, with taxpayers expected to cover about half.
Another notable project, the renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, faced immediate issues after its reopening. Trump has attributed the problems to vandalism, though charges against several individuals accused in connection with the incidents have been dropped.