Trump sued over Kennedy Center plans as preservationists warn legacy ‘in peril’

President Donald Trump is being sued over his plans to close and renovate the Kennedy Center for a two-year period starting on July 4.

The plaintiffs, comprised of eight architectural and historical preservationist groups, warn that the performing arts center and its nearly 55-year legacy are “in peril.” Their lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on Monday, asks the judge to indefinitely halt the construction project because the approval process was not in compliance with federal law.

“The intent of the Board of Trustees and Mr. Trump is clear: To fundamentally alter this iconic property without complying with bedrock federal historic preservation and environmental laws, and without securing the necessary congressional authorization,” the federal complaint states. “And the harm is imminent, as the Board of Trustees and Mr. Trump admit they have already commenced preliminary construction work.”

Last week, the Kennedy Center’s board of trustees