Trump-Led Kennedy Center Board Votes Again to Close Main Building for Renovations

The Trump-led board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has voted to begin renovations that will shutter the main building, according to the New York Times. Under the new plan, the iconic structure will remain closed while an extension called The Reach stays open for limited programming and honors the legacy of President John F. Kennedy.

The board also decided to honor President Donald Trump's name beneath the main signage. An independent analysis determined that keeping the main building open during renovations would be significantly more costly. The resolution states the board is committed to maintaining the historic and architecturally significant nature of the center during the closure.

Renovations will include new furniture, a coffee shop, electronic ticketing kiosks, and $7 million in restroom renovations. The target reopening date is set for the summer of 2028. The board has directed officials to take all legal means necessary to recognize and honor Trump's contributions to the center. The move follows an appeal of a previous ruling by a federal judge, who blocked the board's initial plan to shutter the entire Kennedy Center for two years.

The judge ruled the decision was "ill-informed" and "derelict" in considering the full range of obligations. Trump's name was previously removed from the Kennedy Center following an appeal. The new construction plan awaits approval from the judge, who will review it next week.