Kennedy Center put off planned repairs despite known structural issues, former employees allege
Summary
Former employees of the Kennedy Center say the center's leaders knew about serious roof problems but delayed repairs, even after receiving money from Congress. The center's executive director disagrees, saying new damage was discovered recently and that work is being done with a different plan due to cost issues.Key Facts
- The Kennedy Center was suddenly closed due to structural problems like a leaking roof and ceiling collapse.
- Former staff claim the center’s executive director, Matt Floca, ignored known roofing issues and stopped repair plans in April.
- Congress gave $257 million for repairs in a 2025 bill signed by President Donald Trump.
- Floca says recent inspections found more damage than was known before and adjusted repair plans because initial cost estimates were too high.
- A judge ordered the removal of President Trump’s name from the building and requires 30 days’ notice before major changes, including demolition.
- The Kennedy Center must report on the closure and repairs by Friday.
- Senator Sheldon Whitehouse is investigating possible financial mismanagement and excess spending at the center.
- The Kennedy Center leadership and a Trump-aligned board have been involved in controversies over the building’s future and management.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.