US President Donald Trump announced on July 6, 2026, that a granite helipad is being constructed on the White House lawn to support new, more powerful Marine One helicopters. The project, located on the South Lawn where a temporary UFC arena was recently built for the president's 80th birthday celebration, is estimated to cost up to $6 million and is privately funded.

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, “It’s got the seal of the White House on it in granite, in carved granite. It’s really a beautiful thing.” He did not specify how long the construction would take.

The president stated that Sikorsky Aircraft, a subsidiary of defense contractor Lockheed Martin, would be funding the helipad. Lockheed Martin confirmed the contribution was made to the Trust for the National Mall, a National Park Service nonprofit, and assured it was conducted in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

This helipad project is part of a series of construction efforts overseen by Trump aimed at reshaping the White House grounds.

Sources