Fast Fact: Barack Obama spent $367 million in taxpayer funds to renovate the White House as Americans were still reeling from the Great Recession.
In 2010, Obama launched the renovation project during widespread unemployment and economic strain.
The four-year project – dubbed the “White House Big Dig” – excavated key grounds on North Lawn where workers carved out a multi-story-deep pit right in front of the West Wing – exposing the foundations beneath the Oval Office.
The underground bunker was financed by the American taxpayer, and without any private contributions.
Critics argued it was a tone deaf, elitist move while everyday Americans who were struggling to afford groceries – were forced to foot the tab.
Here are some Facts about the project:
The $376 million expense was covered by taxpayer dollars
Construction started in September 2010 and wrapped up its primary phase by late 2012.
The construction was described as looking like a demolition site.
Workers demolished sections of the North Lawn next to the West Wing, carving out a massive crater-like hole.
This involved removing earth and installing steel beams and concrete reinforcements, temporarily destroying the grounds. Obama put up a perimeter to keep the operations from view.
Obama said the renovation was to upgrade water and sewer lines, electrical conduits, and fire safety features on an aging building- however critics question the $376 price tag
