Trump says Kennedy Center renovation is expected to cost $200 million

President Donald Trump said Monday that the closure and renovation of the Trump Kennedy Center is expected to cost $200 million and that funds to cover the project have already been secured. 

Trump announced the planned closure over the weekend, which will begin this summer and last for approximately two years. He claimed the renovation was because the venue was outdated and worn down, but will turn it into "the finest Performing Arts Facility of its kind, anywhere in the World."

The president swore to reporters that he would not be tearing down the structure but would be using steel from the structure along with marble. He also noted that the new upgrade will include "all brand-new heating, air conditioning," according to Axios.

"I'm not ripping it down," Trump insisted. "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." 

The president said that financing for the project is already complete, though he did not indicate where the finances would come from.

Trump also said his proposed changes to the venue are "totally subject to Board approval." The center is expected to close for the renovations starting July 4, 2026, to coincide with the United States' 250th birthday celebration. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.