RismadarVoice Reporters
September 17, 2026
A United States federal judge has ordered that at least 30 days’ notice must be given before any demolition or major physical changes are made to the Kennedy Centre, effectively preventing immediate action to tear down the landmark performing arts venue in Washington.
US District Judge Christopher Cooper issued the order on Thursday amid an ongoing legal battle involving Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty of Ohio, an ex officio member of the Kennedy Centre board.
Cooper denied Beatty’s request for an emergency hearing but directed that the plaintiffs and court receive written notice at least 30 days before any change to the scope of the project, including possible demolition of the main building.
The order means any attempt to substantially alter or demolish the building would face a period in which the proposed action could be scrutinised by the court.
CENTER SAYS CLOSURE IS TEMPORARY
The dispute intensified after the Kennedy Centre was abruptly closed to the public, with officials saying the shutdown was necessary because of urgent structural and public-safety concerns.
Kennedy Centre Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer Matt Floca said the immediate closure was temporary and intended to allow an assessment of parts of the building showing structural deterioration.
The judge ordered the centre to submit a detailed status report, backed by a sworn declaration from a knowledgeable representative, explaining the temporary closure and emergency repairs.
The temporary safety closure is separate from a broader renovation plan approved by the Kennedy Centre board, which has proposed closing the performing arts venue for an extended period while major work is carried out.
TRUMP RAISES POSSIBILITY OF DEMOLITION
Concerns over the building’s future increased after President Donald Trump said the Kennedy Centre could eventually be “ripped down” if his renovation plans were not carried forward.
Trump and officials aligned with him have maintained that the ageing centre requires extensive work because of its condition and safety concerns.
The legal dispute also involves efforts to place Trump’s name on the building. Cooper previously ruled against restoring Trump’s name to the centre’s facade, finding that Congress had established the institution as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy.
Beatty’s lawyers subsequently sought additional court protection after Trump’s demolition comments and photographs emerged showing him examining material referring to the Kennedy Centre being demolished.
Thursday’s order does not permanently prohibit renovations or demolition. It requires advance notice before major changes can proceed, preserving an opportunity for further legal review while the dispute over the future of the Kennedy Centre continues.