Trump Administration Shuts Kennedy Center for 7 Days as Court Fight Over Closure Intensifies
Updated
Updated · CNN · Sep 16
Trump Administration Shuts Kennedy Center for 7 Days as Court Fight Over Closure Intensifies
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Sep 16
Summary
A court filing said the Kennedy Center began a seven-day shutdown Wednesday after officials found “untenable risks” from structural deterioration, despite an order requiring the venue to remain open during Rep. Joyce Beatty’s lawsuit.
September 4 storm damage triggered the closure, the administration said, after a large section of water-damaged plaster fell about 60 feet from the Grand Foyer ceiling and created imminent life-safety hazards.
Beatty’s lawyers told the judge a team member was denied entry and cited Trump’s warning that the center could be “ripped down,” along with photos appearing to show him reviewing a “Kennedy Center DEMOLISHED” poster.
Justice Department lawyers argued the shutdown is only temporary and necessary for safety, while the board says it is still pursuing restoration and renovation; the Reach annex remains open for now.