Trump unveils White House helipad as building frenzy escalates

President Donald Trump unveiled a new helicopter landing pad at the White House on Wednesday, part of a string of construction projects aimed at leaving his mark on Washington. The granite pad, situated on the South Lawn, was necessary due to the new Marine One helicopters' potential to damage the grass, according to Trump. The 80-year-old former real estate mogul also announced plans to redo the original helipad, which was built on too steep a slope.

The project is set to be completed in time for Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit on September 24. Trump signed a replica of the president's seal, which will be embedded into the pad. The construction has resulted in significant alterations to the historic lawn, a site that has witnessed historic events like Richard Nixon's resignation and the signing of the Oslo Accords.

Critics have criticized Trump's building spree, including the demolition of the East Wing to create a massive ballroom with a secret underground bunker and drone port. The ballroom project has faced legal challenges, and the administration recently requested permission to complete construction on national security grounds. Trump claims the ballroom will be privately funded, but recent reports suggest taxpayer funds may be involved, potentially costing up to $600 million.

This is just one of Trump's ambitious projects as he seeks to transform Washington before his term ends in January 2029, including renovations to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and other parks, and the construction of a triumphal arch.