WASHINGTON: Kennedy Centre demolition questions intensified Thursday after photos showed President Donald Trump reviewing a printout that appeared to refer to the demolition of the landmark performing arts venue.
The images showed Trump aboard Air Force One after landing at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Part of a large red headline on the document appeared to read “Kennedy Centre DEMOLIS.”
However, the photographs do not establish what the document proposed. They also do not confirm that Trump or his administration has approved a demolition plan.
Meanwhile, U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper ordered the administration to provide 30 days’ written notice before changing the scope of planned renovations.
Cooper specifically said the requirement covered any potential Kennedy Centre demolition of the main building. He said the order would avoid confusion following recent developments.
The judge also requested a detailed status report on the building’s closure and emergency repairs. The administration must file that information by September 23.
Separately, Cooper denied Rep. Joyce Beatty’s request for an emergency hearing. Beatty, an Ohio Democrat and Kennedy Centre board member, has challenged actions taken by the Trump-aligned board.
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The photos emerged hours after Trump discussed the building’s condition and renovation costs. He said Wednesday that the Kennedy Centre could eventually be “ripped down” without his administration’s involvement.
Trump has also argued that his administration deserves recognition for helping the institution. However, the current legal dispute includes separate questions about efforts to add his name to the building.
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At the same time, Kennedy Centre officials have cited safety concerns and renovation needs in explaining the closure. The Justice Department has argued that the temporary shutdown does not violate the existing court order.
Still, no public demolition plan had been released as of Thursday. For now, Cooper’s order requires advance notice before officials make any major physical change to the centre.
