The construction of a new ballroom and presidential bunker at the White House will continue as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia granted an administrative stay on an earlier ruling that halted most above-ground work. This decision paves the way for ongoing development of the projects, with the next court hearing scheduled for June 5, suggesting construction could extend through that date. Previously, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon had temporarily blocked the ballroom's construction in March, citing concerns over national security.
The appeals court's ruling allows underground bunker work to proceed but maintains restrictions on above-ground structures. The Justice Department appealed Leon’s decision, arguing that halting construction poses risks to presidential security and leaves a significant gap near the White House. President Trump publicly criticized the initial ruling, emphasizing the importance of the ballroom for national security and dismissing the underground options as ineffective. He announced plans for the privately funded event space last summer and demolished the East Wing in October, amidst legal challenges from the National Trust for Historical Preservation.