The Kennedy Center's closure has been extended for at least another week, according to a court filing Wednesday by the venue's executive director, Matt Floca. Floca cited "documented hazards" within the building and corrosion on the building's soffits as reasons for the continued closure, stating these issues could endanger individuals during an emergency.
The search for additional structural problems is ongoing, Floca said. He indicated that the temporary closure would be reassessed weekly. The current extension is set to last until September 30, 2026.
This development follows a recent order from U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper, who directed the Trump administration to provide 30 days' notice for any changes to the Kennedy Center's renovation plans, including any demolition of the main building. Prior to this order, Floca had stated in a filing that the building's closure was temporary, initially planned for seven days with weekly reevaluations.
The legal disputes surrounding the performing arts center have been ongoing for months. In May, the same judge blocked a proposed two-year closure for renovations. The Justice Department has since filed a motion to dissolve that order, allowing renovations to proceed, but the judge has not yet ruled on this motion.
Separately, Judge Cooper ruled that President Donald Trump's name, which was added to the center's exterior after a board vote to rename it the "Trump-Kennedy Center," had to be removed. Cooper stated that rebranding the center violated federal law, a court order, and a congressional statute. Trump has appealed this decision.
Last week, Trump suggested the performing arts center could be "closed" or "ripped down" if his administration did not receive recognition at the site. He was later photographed reviewing a placard that appeared to show an image of demolition with the text "Kennedy Center DEMOLISHED."
