Whitehouse Alleges $8 Million Kennedy Center Renovation Waste as Whistleblowers Detail Rusting Steel
Updated
Updated · PBS NewsHour · Jul 11
Whitehouse Alleges $8 Million Kennedy Center Renovation Waste as Whistleblowers Detail Rusting Steel
3 articles · Updated · PBS NewsHour · Jul 11
Summary
Whitehouse said whistleblowers described rushed Kennedy Center renovations that left steel columns rusting under fresh paint, a reflecting pool potentially needing a full rebuild, and a new bathroom floor torn out over tile color.
An 83-page appendix of internal emails, documents and photos alleges the work was accelerated to suit Trump's aesthetic demands, televised December events and a planned appearance to accept a FIFA Peace Prize.
The Rhode Island Democrat said the center bypassed contracting rules, including an $8 million concert-hall flooring contract awarded to a firm with no concert-hall experience, and demanded answers from Executive Director Matt Floca by July 23.
The allegations deepen turmoil at the federally supported arts complex after Trump replaced its leadership, had his name added to the building, and faced court rulings that blocked a two-year closure and ordered his name removed.