CHARLOTTE, N.C. — An online petition has been launched in hopes of saving a beloved movie theater at the Park Road Shopping Center.
The historic Regal Cinemas Park Terrace Theater, off Park Road and Woodlawn Road, which has been known for showing independent and foreign films over the years, is scheduled to close on Dec. 17.
“Not necessarily the blockbusters, but (the movies at the theater) are the ones that tell great stories,” Lynn Trenning said.
Ann Ross, who created the Change.org petition, wrote that the theater "is a Charlotte landmark and vital cultural asset to the community."
She urged residents to get in touch with Edens, the owner of the shopping center, and make pleas to them to keep the theater open.
The petition had more than 2,200 signatures as of 3 p.m. Wednesday.
“I was disappointed. It is a landmark,” Dana Spivey said.
Over the years, the shopping center where the theater is located has added many new restaurants and businesses.
A spokesperson didn't say why the theater is shutting down, but the neighborhood group Montford Park Partners said it’s because the landlord isn't renewing its lease.
The theater, which is Charlotte's second oldest, opened in 1964.
In 2014, a time capsule was opened after it had been buried there for 50 years.
“I’ve watched it go from Diet Coke to serving wine,” Trenning said. “It’s followed the evolution of Charlotte, and yeah, it’s going to be a big loss in the community.”
It's not clear what will replace it.
“I’m sure they will tear it down and build something else just like they’ve done,” Spivey said.
Rachel Russell Krenz, with Montford Park Partners, said she has been working to enhance the neighborhood.
She believes the community should look to supporting other local businesses during this time of transition.
“There are a lot of great memories there that connects us to our past, but we also want to make sure we are progressing and giving them the amenities that people need and want,” Krenz said.
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