Cultural and historic preservation organizations have requested a federal judge to halt President Donald Trump’s significant renovation of the John F. Kennedy Performing Arts Center. The center has already seen considerable renovations since the president took office again last year.
They have asked U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper for a preliminary injunction to stop construction before the project is set to begin on July 6, expressing concerns that the president and the center’s board might bypass historic preservation regulations meant to protect the building.
After the hearing, attorney Greg Werkhiser remarked that the law at the heart of this case raises an essential issue: “Should we slow down and take stock before making changes to the defining nature of the American experience?”
Meanwhile, Justice Department lawyers representing both the president and the board contended that the renovation plans were not extensive, did not need extra approval, and fell well within the board’s authority.
In recent decisions, the Trump Kennedy Center Board of Directors has unanimously approved a $257 million renovation plan and a two-year closure of the center.
Since returning to his position, President Trump replaced the center’s former leadership and appointed a board filled with chosen allies, taking on the role of chairman, which triggered backlash from various artists. Trump’s name has also been added to the structure’s façade, which now reads “Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Performing Arts Center.”
Earlier this year, the president announced the planned renovations.
This latest hearing follows another that occurred the day before regarding the center’s future. Rep. Joyce Beatty, a Democrat from Ohio and an ex-officio board member, has also filed a lawsuit aimed at blocking the renovations that Judge Cooper is overseeing.
During the hearing, Matt Floca, the center’s executive director who was promoted to the board by Trump, explained that the planned renovations are essentially about repairing years of wear and tear, including significant water damage in an area referred to as the “swamp.”
Floca indicated that closing the center would be the most efficient way to manage these extensive repairs.
Lawyers for the preservation group challenged the assertion that the project was limited in scope, citing Trump’s own comment about completely exposing the building’s steel frame.
Justice Department lawyer Yaakov Ross responded to these concerns, suggesting that they are being exaggerated. “There’s no risk of unilateral changes happening… There’s no risk that we’ll wake up and the building will be gone,” Ross added.
The ongoing lawsuit concerning the Kennedy Center is part of broader disputes regarding President Trump’s attempts to modify historic landmarks across the country.
Since his return to office last year, Trump has faced criticism from preservationists after modifying the White House Rose Garden. Additionally, the White House demolished the east wing last year to make space for an intended $400 million ballroom, although construction has been delayed due to legal issues. Trump also has plans for a 250-foot-tall “Arc de Triomphe” to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary.
