Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Feb 3: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said the iconic Kennedy Center is likely to shut its doors around July 4 for what he described as a sweeping renovation project expected to cost roughly $200 million.
Dismissing speculation that the landmark performing arts complex would be demolished, Trump made it clear the structure would remain intact. “I’m not tearing it down,” he said, explaining that the renovation would preserve the core framework while reusing key materials. According to him, the existing steel structure will stay, while portions of marble will be retained and replaced as needed.
Trump painted a grim picture of the venue’s current condition, calling it rundown and unsafe. “It’s in very bad shape—dilapidated, almost dangerous,” he said, claiming that parts of the building occasionally fall from ceilings.
He argued that keeping the Kennedy Center open during construction would compromise the quality of work. Renovation efforts, he said, are constantly disrupted by performances and visitors. Recounting a worker’s complaint, Trump said newly laid marble is walked over before it even has time to set properly.
According to the President, funding for the project has already been secured. “We’re fully financed,” he said, adding that the goal is to transform the venue into something far superior to its current form. “We’re going to make it unbelievable—far better than it ever was.”
Trump said the rebuilt center would feature premium materials throughout, including top-grade marble, and would feel entirely new once completed.
He also noted that the building’s steel framework would undergo thorough inspection, as it will be fully exposed during the renovation process.
Expressing confidence in the outcome, Trump predicted the revamped Kennedy Center would be unmatched nationwide. “There won’t be anything like it anywhere in the country,” he said.
The Kennedy Center is one of Washington’s most prominent cultural institutions, hosting major performances, national events, and international artists. Any extended closure is expected to have a significant impact on the city’s cultural calendar and tourism landscape.