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Kennedy Center Ceiling Collapse Sparks Closure Plans
Confirmed
In Short: The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., experienced a partial ceiling collapse during a rainstorm, prompting the Trump-led board to push for a two-year closure for renovations.
The Trump-led board of the Kennedy Center had already voted in August to close the facility for two years, with renovations expected to cost more than $250 million. This decision was made to restore and renovate the center, as evidenced by the board's previous vote to place wording on the facade describing the center as "restored and renovated by President Donald J. Trump." However, the recent collapse has accelerated the timeline for the closure.
The collapse during a rainstorm has raised concerns about the building's structural integrity and the urgency of the renovations. The Kennedy Center's main building has now closed immediately following the incident, with plans to reopen after the extensive renovations are complete.
What's confirmed
What's still developing
- The Kennedy Center shared photos on Saturday that showed a partial ceiling collapse that happened during a rainstorm in the main hallway of the over 50-year-old performing arts building.
- Last week, the center did remove a piece of modern artwork called "Blue" that has been outside the building since 2019, saying in a statement, "we are honored to have been stewards" of the late sculptor Joel Shapiro's work.
- Workers remove President Donald Trump’s name from the John F.
- Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts following a federal court ruling.
- Trump Plaza" and to put lettering on the building that says "The John F.
- A rainy night in Washington, D.C., turned into an unexpected maintenance headache at the Kennedy Center on Friday.
- Part of the ceiling inside the Grand Foyer collapsed after heavy rain hit the area.
- No one was injured, but ceiling pieces, dust, and debris landed across the red carpet.