US News

White House North Portico renovation approaches completion ahead of diplomatic visit

Refurbishment ordered by President Trump is wrapping up before a planned late September state visit, according to ABC News.

Updated Sep 8, 2026 · 15:48 UTC1 reports

The short version

Scaffolding is being dismantled at the White House North Portico following summer restoration work on columns, stonework, and plaster.[ABC News]
President Trump ordered the repairs after personally noting structural wear, while officials cited age and weather exposure.[ABC News]
The completion comes ahead of a September 24 state dinner for Chinese President Xi Jinping amid ongoing construction and litigation elsewhere on the property.[ABC News]

Scaffolding and shrouds on the North Portico columns were dismantled after restoration work initiated in June.[ABC News]
Officials cited routine weathering and age for the plaster and stonework refurbishments ordered by Donald Trump.[ABC News]
Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to attend a state dinner at the White House on September 24.[ABC News]
Construction of a South Lawn helipad was recently completed amid broader White House property updates.[ABC News]
Multiple lawsuits were filed following the demolition of the East Wing without standard historic regulatory reviews.[ABC News]

The timeline and final legal outcomes surrounding East Wing redevelopment and related ballroom construction remain unresolved.[ABC News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.