Trump Announces $200M Renovation of Kennedy Center

Two-year closure planned for infrastructure upgrades, including new HVAC systems

Feb. 3, 2026 at 8:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

President Trump announced that the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. will undergo a $200 million renovation project, which will include a two-year closure to focus on infrastructure improvements like new heating and air-conditioning systems. Trump stated that the landmark itself will not be demolished, and that some of the existing materials like steel and marble will be reused in the renovations.

Why it matters

The Kennedy Center is an iconic performing arts venue in the nation's capital, hosting numerous high-profile events and productions. The extensive renovations will aim to modernize the aging infrastructure and facilities, ensuring the center can continue serving the community for years to come.

The details

According to Trump, the $200 million renovation project will focus on upgrading the Kennedy Center's infrastructure, including installing new HVAC systems. The renovations will require a two-year closure of the venue, during which time some existing materials like steel and marble will be reused in the construction. Trump stated that the landmark building itself will not be demolished as part of the project.

  • The Kennedy Center will close for two years to undergo the $200 million renovation project.
  • The renovations are expected to be completed and the Kennedy Center reopened in the near future.

The players

President Trump

The current President of the United States, who announced the $200 million renovation project for the Kennedy Center.

Kennedy Center

An iconic performing arts venue located in Washington, D.C. that will undergo extensive renovations over the next two years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm not ripping it out. I'll be using the steel. So we're using the structure. We're using some of the marble, and some of the marble comes down, but when it's open, it'll be brand new and really beautiful.”

— President Trump (NBC News)

What’s next

The Kennedy Center will close for two years to undergo the $200 million renovation project, with the goal of reopening the modernized venue in the near future.

The takeaway

The extensive renovations to the iconic Kennedy Center will aim to upgrade the aging infrastructure and facilities, ensuring the performing arts venue can continue serving the community for years to come, despite the temporary two-year closure.