Topline
Construction crews were spotted on the South Lawn of the White House working on building a new permanent helipad for the presidential residence, according to a Washington Post report—although the Trump administration has not yet confirmed the plans.
The White House South Lawn, seen on Monday, June 28.
Getty Images
Key Facts
Construction crews were working on the South Lawn helipad project on Monday night, which is now blocked off from view by a large black fence, the Post reported citing three anonymous sources familiar with the plans.
The new helipad was first reported to be in the works in May, but Trump and the White House have not commented on the planned addition—a rarity as the president frequently talks up his big second-term renovations at the White House and across Washington, D.C.
Marine One helicopters have traditionally landed directly on the South Lawn, but an exhaust vent on the new Sikorsky VH-92A Patriot now risks scorching the White House’s grass.
The project will be funded by a $5 million donation from Lockheed Martin, the company that manufactures the new Marine One helicopters, the Post reported citing a source from the company.
The new helipad will reportedly be constructed near the South Portico, where Trump and other presidents traditionally speak to reporters before boarding Marine One.
Both the White House and Lockheed Martin did not return requests for comment from Forbes.
Tangent
The grass on parts of the South Lawn was previously torn up for the massive 87-foot steel arena installed on the grounds for UFC Freedom 250, the mixed martial arts event hosted as part of the country’s 250th anniversary that took place on President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday earlier this month. Lawncare company ScottsMiracle-Gro previously announced they would be donating $1 million in cash and product in the form of custom turf to help restore the lawn after the event. Forbes has reached out to the company for further information about these plans.
Key Background
Trump has seemingly made remodeling Washington, D.C., a priority during his second term in office, forging ahead with controversial projects that frequently face public backlash and even court challenges. These include the planned ballroom at the former East Wing, refurbishment of Washington’s East Potomac Golf Links, a renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and a proposed triumphal arch. Trump has also made smaller changes to the White House, including significantly altering the Rose Garden and installing a patio in the area.