Downtown SLO movie theater plans major improvements after signing new 20-year lease
San Luis Obispo’s largest movie theater is planning a host of major improvements after signing a new lease at its downtown location.
According to a sign posted on the Marsh Street theater’s ticket window, The Movie Experience: Downtown Centre Cinemas has renewed its lease for the next 20 years.
The theater also announced some major improvements coming to the business, including new recliners in 2025 and upgraded sound equipment and screens “coming soon.”
Multiple requests for comment from theater management on the lease and anticipated changes were not returned.
“We are so excited to see the Downtown Centre Cinemas renew its lease,” San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce President Jim Dantona told The Tribune in a statement. “As the movie industry continues to rebound from the pandemic hit, it’s good to know that people will be able to have the dinner and a movie experience in downtown SLO. Those kind of experiential businesses provide increased synergies with other downtown businesses that sustain our economy.”
The news comes several months after a representative of the theater spoke before the City Council, warning that the longstanding business would not stay open into next year unless parking concerns were addressed.
“The owner was frank,” Rusty Barker, speaking on behalf of the movie theater’s owner, said during the May meeting. “If things don’t change, and parking doesn’t come down and you don’t act, Downtown Cinemas won’t be there in 2025.”
The City Council ultimately voted to significantly reduce its parking rates.
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