Construction crews working on a new helipad at the White House have dismantled the large granite presidential seal intended for the landing spot, indicating potential delays for the project. Photos taken on Wednesday showed workers using a jackhammer on the helipad, where the seal had been visible the previous week.
The White House stated that it is continuing to make improvements to match the needs of the building and its grounds. The helipad project was initiated due to concerns that the powerful new helicopters used for Marine One could damage the South Lawn.
"For years, the White House has desperately needed a proper helipad on White House grounds that will allow the president to land safely and also protect the beautiful South Lawn grass from the fierce exhaust fumes of the incredible Marine One," White House spokesman Davis Ingle said Wednesday. "Thanks to President Trump, the White House has never looked better, and it will only continue to get better under his leadership."
The new helicopters, manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, debuted in 2024. However, their use has been limited because their downward-facing exhaust vents pose a risk to the South Lawn's grass.
President Trump had described the helipad at length in an Oval Office appearance last month, detailing plans for it to be made of carved granite and estimating its cost at up to $6 million. He also stated that Sikorsky Aircraft would fund the project. Lockheed Martin referred comment on the construction to the White House.
Trump has indicated that his suggestion to use granite instead of concrete was adopted for the helipad. He also noted that the landing pad could potentially be used for other White House events, such as press conferences.
The removal of the seal was first reported by The Washington Post.