Yesterday, the Trump administration updated a federal judge about their intention to carry out a “Façade Condition Assessment” and “Painting Feasibility Study” on the outside of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, as they finalize plans to repaint the historic structure.
This work is set to begin on July 30 and will be managed by a consultant specializing in building assessments and environmental services. The process involves taking samples from different parts of the wall to check its condition, including examining microfractures, weathering, and any existing coatings or contaminants.
The administration noted that they will select several discreet areas to test whether mineral silicate paints can adhere to the building’s surface without needing to scrape it off first, as well as how easily the paint can be removed without damaging the stone.
In each testing area, the building consultant will “use the gentlest means possible to clean the stone, apply one of the potential options for mineral silicate paint and, after sufficient cure time, remove the paint from that test area,” stated Heather Martin, deputy director of the Office of Administration in a sworn declaration.
The executive office building serves as workspace for White House staff including the vice president and their team within the White House complex. This notice comes in response to a lawsuit filed last year by Cultural Heritage Partners regarding Trump’s alleged plans to paint the building white. A federal judge has yet to decide on whether Trump’s painting plans are legal.
The administration mentioned it was informing Judge Dabney Friedrich about its plans “to avoid potential confusion about the nature of the activity that will occur,” according to attorney Michelle Nkeng.
However, Nkeng clarified that this testing does not indicate that they are moving ahead with Trump’s renovation plan.
“None of the preliminary testing activities outlined above constitute a decision to proceed with a painting project at the EEOB,” she wrote.
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