The federal judge who ordered President Donald Trump’s name removed from the Kennedy Center is now seeking details on how the institution plans to remain open to the public during its planned renovation project.In a brief order issued Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper directed the Kennedy Center to submit a status report by June 19 outlining its construction plans, any board actions related to the project, and how the center intends to continue operating during renovations.The Trump administration had announced plans to close the center beginning July 4 for a two-year, $250 million renovation project. However, Cooper blocked the administration’s effort to completely shutter programming and public operations while litigation continues.
In temporarily halting the closure, Cooper found that the board did not properly evaluate a directive from Trump, who serves as chairman, to close the facility for what he described as a “Construction, Revitalization, and Complete Rebuilding” project.
The dispute stems from Cooper’s May 29 ruling that the board violated the 1964 law establishing the center by renaming it after Trump. The judge found that federal law designates the institution solely as a memorial to former President John F. Kennedy and does not permit the board to alter that designation.
