White House South Lawn renovation projects

President Donald Trump initiated a series of White House renovation projects on the South Lawn, specifically focusing on a new helipad for Marine One. Initially, the President ordered the demolition of a partially completed granite helipad due to aesthetic concerns regarding its appearance and the slope of the lawn. This project, funded by Sikorsky Aircraft, was intended to be completed before a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

By mid-August, the administration unveiled progress on several renovation efforts. This included the nearly completed $13 million South Lawn helipad and the replacement of the south side driveway with white granite from California, which the President stated was necessary because the previous asphalt was “not appropriate for a great house.” Other proposed or ongoing projects mentioned include a visitor screening center and an East Wing ballroom. During a press tour, the President signed a granite slab for the site and criticized opponents of the ballroom project, labeling them “disloyal” to the country.

On Wednesday, August 20, President Trump unveiled the new helipad, highlighting the use of high-quality granite for the landing area. He claimed the stone is exceptionally durable, can withstand 35,000 pounds per square inch of pressure, and possesses a “million-year life.” The President noted the granite surface replaces previous black asphalt that he described as being in “terrible shape.”

By early September, the redesigned helipad was announced as complete. The project required contractors to dismantle previously installed granite sections, including parts of the presidential seal, to ensure the landing area appeared level despite the lawn's natural slope. Lockheed Martin, the parent company of Sikorsky Aircraft, stated it contributed to the project's estimated $5 million to $6 million cost through a payment to the National Park Service, noting the contribution complied with all applicable laws and regulations.