NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- First lady Melania Trump on Monday announced the completion of the new White House tennis pavilion (above), less than two months ahead of the Trumps' departure from the residence.
In addition to construction of the new building, the project included the refurbishment of the White House tennis court and Grandchildren’s Garden.
“I am pleased to announce the completion of the Tennis Pavilion on the White House grounds," the first lady said in a statement. "Thank you to all of the talented craftsmen who made this project possible and to the generous supporters of the White House. It is my hope that this private space will function as both a place of leisure and gathering for future First Families."
Planning for the project began in early 2018. In June 2019, the project was approved by the Commission of Fine Arts and the National Capital Planning Commission. The building and landscape were planned to blend with the existing structures on the White House grounds.
Design of the structure was inspired by the existing architecture of the White House, in particular the East and West Wings.
Construction of the building was in partnership with the Trust for the National Mall, and the National Park Service. The new building was funded by private donations.