President Trump has announced that he won't tear down the historic Kennedy Center arts venue, but instead plans to close it for approximately two years to undergo major repairs. The decision was made public on Monday, as the President claimed the building needed to be renovated to prevent further deterioration.
Despite his assurances that the structure would not be demolished, Trump's comments suggested significant changes to its interior layout. He emphasized that he intended to utilize the steel framework of the Kennedy Center, which has become a symbol of American culture and arts, for future projects.
The President's remarks came after weeks of controversy surrounding his appointment as chairman of a board overseeing the venue's operations. The news had sparked concerns among performers and other stakeholders, leading many to cancel their appearances at the center.
Trump acknowledged that the Kennedy Center was in disrepair, citing its "run down," "dilapidated" state. He stated that the building would require significant investment, estimated at around $200 million, which he claimed would be fully financed. When asked about potential simultaneous renovations or the feasibility of maintaining the venue's operations during construction, Trump replied that these options were not viable.
The President also promised to incorporate "the highest-grade marbles" and other materials in the renovation process. He expressed confidence that the revamped Kennedy Center would exceed its former glory, making it "unbelievable" and setting a new standard for cultural institutions nationwide.
This latest move is part of Trump's ongoing efforts to reshape Washington landmarks under his administration. Following his installation as President, he has initiated numerous projects aimed at altering iconic sites such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Dulles International Airport.
Despite his assurances that the structure would not be demolished, Trump's comments suggested significant changes to its interior layout. He emphasized that he intended to utilize the steel framework of the Kennedy Center, which has become a symbol of American culture and arts, for future projects.
The President's remarks came after weeks of controversy surrounding his appointment as chairman of a board overseeing the venue's operations. The news had sparked concerns among performers and other stakeholders, leading many to cancel their appearances at the center.
Trump acknowledged that the Kennedy Center was in disrepair, citing its "run down," "dilapidated" state. He stated that the building would require significant investment, estimated at around $200 million, which he claimed would be fully financed. When asked about potential simultaneous renovations or the feasibility of maintaining the venue's operations during construction, Trump replied that these options were not viable.
The President also promised to incorporate "the highest-grade marbles" and other materials in the renovation process. He expressed confidence that the revamped Kennedy Center would exceed its former glory, making it "unbelievable" and setting a new standard for cultural institutions nationwide.
This latest move is part of Trump's ongoing efforts to reshape Washington landmarks under his administration. Following his installation as President, he has initiated numerous projects aimed at altering iconic sites such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Dulles International Airport.
. I love the Kennedy Center, it's such an iconic part of American culture. I don't know if closing it for two years is going to be a good idea, especially considering all the performers who are going to have to cancel their appearances. And $200 million is a pretty steep price tag, not sure where that money is even coming from 
. Plus, what's with the marble thing? I'm all for using high-quality materials, but does it really need the "highest-grade marbles"? 
I just hope they can get it done without losing its soul in the process 
. The Kennedy Center is a hub for innovation, creativity, and progress. It's a symbol of American ingenuity and tolerance. By putting his stamp on this venue, he's essentially silencing the voices that have made it so vibrant and inclusive.
Either way, the Kennedy Center deserves better than to be treated like a pawn in Trump's game of real estate and politics.
. He's always saying one thing but doing another... like, what if he just uses the steel framework for his own projects and leaves the Kennedy Center in shambles? 
. Plus, "the highest-grade marbles" sounds like total nonsense... what's next, marble-encrusted toilets? 
i guess we'll have to wait and see how this whole thing plays out... could be nice if it ends up being some kinda beautiful space 
! It's amazing to think that it might sit idle for two whole years 
. Those marble renovations sound fancy 
, but what about all the artists and performers who call it home? Won't they be losing their studio space or stage time?
. Trump says he wants to preserve its legacy, but can he even get his own renovation plans together without messing it up?
and safe for future generations 
. But still... it's hard not to worry about what this decision means for the arts community 
, like, can you even imagine what they're gonna do with that place?! 
.
$200 mil 4 renovation? tht's like, a lotta cash fam... 
. I mean, can't they just fix the thing without making a big deal about it? The Kennedy Center is already historic, do we really need to make changes to its layout just to "modernize" it? And what's with all this talk of using the steel framework for future projects? Is he planning on building some kind of Trump Tower nearby or something? 
