Kennedy Center to Close for Two Years for Renovations

The Kennedy Center board of trustees unanimously approved a $257 million revitalization project, leading to a temporary, two-year closure of the arts institution following Independence Day celebrations. The decision follows criticism from President Trump regarding the center’s prior financial management and physical condition. The project, initiated by Trump, aims to remake the Kennedy Center. Ahead of the vote, the president announced plans to replace the venue’s president, Richard Grenell. Grenell announced his resignation last week. The board, handpicked by the president, voted to proceed with the renovations, anticipating a grand re-opening after the construction period. The project’s cost is estimated around $200 million.