Online via Zoom | February 25, 2026 | 4:30 p.m EST/ 3:30 p.m. CST/ 2:30 p.m. MST/ 1:30 p.m. PST | Free and Open to the Public

The National Capital Planning Commission is scheduled to hear public comments and potentially vote on plans for the new White House Ballroom on Thursday, March 5. This comes just after the US Commission of Fine Arts met on February 19 and voted unanimously to approve not only the concept plans but also—without any public notice—the final plans for the ballroom, which had neither been presented nor reviewed.

This vote bypassed consideration of the views of the American people, including the more than 99 percent of approximately 2,000 submitted comments expressing opposition.

The historic integrity and symbolism of the White House are at stake. We encourage you to learn more so you can make your voice be heard.

On Wednesday, February 25, at 4:30 pm ET, the National Trust will host a webinar featuring two of its trustees and fellows of The American Institute of Architects, David Scott Parker and Bill Bates, who will share design modifications to protect the carefully balanced classical design of the White House and take questions from participants. The conversation will be facilitated by Tom Mayes, the chief legal officer of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Their insights will help inform your public comments and demonstrate that viable alternatives exist.

Following the webinar, submit your comments to the NCPC website by 12:00 pm ET on March 4, 2026, to ensure they are considered ahead of any Commission action.