Trump raises prospect of demolishing iconic Kennedy Centre
WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump’s administration suggested Tuesday that the Kennedy Centre in Washington could be demolished if courts block his plans to overhaul the performing arts landmark.
The Trump administration has suggested that the iconic Kennedy Centre in Washington could be demolished if courts prevent his plans to renovate the performing arts landmark, according to a Justice Department filing. While the filing does not explicitly state a demolition plan, it argues that without Trump's restoration efforts, the site would become increasingly unsafe and eventually require demolition.
Attorney Brantley Mayers wrote that the center is "structurally unsound, fundamentally unsafe, and embarrassing to the nation's capital," and suggested that if left neglected, it could be repurposed as a large outdoor amphitheater overlooking the Potomac River. The filing portrays Trump as the only one capable of saving the center, and notes that his administration has secured $258 million from Congress for the restoration and attracted new donors.
Trump's name will be prominently added to the building, with "Restored and Renovated by President Donald J. Trump" displayed beneath its name and a new plaza named the President Donald J. Trump Plaza. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, representing the board, has challenged Trump's efforts, arguing only Congress can rename the institution.
A hearing on the proposed closure and recognition of Trump's name on the building is scheduled for Thursday.
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