President Donald Trump’s proposed White House ballroom is expected to receive approval from the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) on Thursday. This comes just days after a federal judge issued a ruling that temporarily halts construction on the project.

Judge Halts Construction, Planning Continues

U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ordered a halt to construction activities unless Congress approves the significant structural changes to the White House. The NCPC, however, is proceeding with the vote on the project’s planning phase, as the judge’s ruling specifically addresses construction, not the planning process, according to NCPC spokesperson Stephen Staudigl.

Project Faces Legal Challenges

The legal battle and the judge’s ruling could potentially delay the completion of the ballroom, a project Trump is aiming to finish before the end of his term in early 2029. The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed a lawsuit after Trump demolished the East Wing last fall, arguing the project requires congressional and commission approval.

Design Changes and Cost

Before Thursday’s vote, the commission will review design modifications Trump announced on Sunday while traveling from Florida. These changes include the removal of a large staircase and the addition of an uncovered porch. A White House official, speaking anonymously, stated the president considered feedback from the NCPC, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, and the public when making these adjustments.

The estimated cost of the 90,000-square-foot ballroom has risen to $400 million since its initial announcement last summer. Trump initially cited a need for additional space to host important guests, beyond what a tent on the lawn could provide.

White House Response

President Trump stated, “We built many things at the White House over the years. They don’t get congressional approval.” Representatives for relevant House and Senate committees did not respond to requests for comment, as Congress is currently on spring break.

The 12-member NCPC is chaired by Will Scharf, a White House aide who has publicly supported the ballroom addition. Trump appointed Scharf and two other White House officials to the commission. Judge Leon emphasized that the President is a steward of the White House for future generations, but not its owner, and that no statute grants the President the authority claimed.