Kennedy Center Board Votes for $250 Million Renovation

The board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts voted Thursday to close the institution's main building for a two-year, $250 million renovation project. The plan includes structural repairs and acoustical improvements, with the John F. Kennedy bronze bust temporarily relocating to the Reach building, which will maintain limited programming.

This decision follows a previous block by U.S. District Judge Christopher R. Cooper, who had ruled an earlier closure vote was "ill-informed and seemingly preordained." In a move that challenges a court order to remove the president's name from the facility, the Trump-allied board also voted to inscribe the phrase "Restored and Renovated by President Donald J. Trump" on the building.

Representative Joyce Beatty has filed a lawsuit to block the closure. Beatty alleges the renovation may be used to mask financial declines resulting from the departure of artists and slumping ticket sales. Executive Director Matt Floca recommended the full closure to ensure the efficient execution of the necessary repairs.