Trump’s renewed plans for the center suggest dramatic renovations, potentially exposing steel framing, as leadership and board roles have shifted under his administration.

The filing notes the controversy surfaced in February and March 2026, though specific events and outcomes aren’t provided in the excerpt.

A coalition of preservation groups filed a lawsuit to block major physical changes at the Kennedy Center, arguing the renovations should go through standard capital-project review processes.

The dispute has stirred controversy in the arts community, with several high-profile artists withdrawing and leadership changes at the Center fueling debates over governance and control.

A judge previously allowed a witness to speak during a vote but did not grant a broader request to halt closure and renaming, with no final ruling yet on that larger request.

The White House defends the project as creating a premier performing arts facility, with officials expressing confidence in victory.

Kennedy Center leadership and the White House did not immediately comment on the lawsuit.

Requests for comment from White House and Kennedy Center representatives were not immediately responded to.

A 2021 plan estimated over $250 million in maintenance needs, and Congress approved about $257 million for the center last year as part of broader funding.

Separately, a federal judge is expected to decide soon whether to halt work on a White House ballroom project in another related lawsuit.

Plaintiffs contend that necessary approvals were not obtained and that funds designated for maintenance do not authorize major reconstruction or expansion.

The plaintiffs seek to pause work until standard impact reviews and consultations with Congress and historic preservation and planning authorities are conducted.