Stockton’s cherished Empire Theatre, which stood tall amidst various calamities including fires and closures, is poised for a transformative rebirth. One of the most visible shifts was the recent removal of the landmark "Stockton" sign on August 2 due to safety concerns about its placement on an unstable wall.
Allen Sawyer, co-owner of the former Empire Theatre and a prominent local attorney, shared both his nostalgia for the iconic sign and the broader vision for the theatre's future. Having acquired the property for approximately $2 million some months ago, Sawyer sees the project as pivotal for the rejuvenation of the Miracle Mile. "Our goal is to reinvigorate the community," he explained.
Sawyer's ties to Stockton are deep-rooted; he completed his undergraduate studies at the University of the Pacific and would frequent The House of Shaw Café & Bakery, which he currently owns. Reflecting on the theatre's past, Sawyer praised the previous owner's innovative use of the structure, lamenting its untimely end due to a series of unfortunate events.
The Empire Theatre has faced its share of hardships. A devastating five-alarm fire in 2021 resulted in the demolition of its "very unsafe" west wall to prevent potential damage to nearby structures. This wasn't the building's first brush with flames; in 2018, a two-alarm fire scorched its lobby and adjacent spaces. Furthermore, in 2017, city officials closed down the complex, leading to the eviction of nine businesses.
Over the years, the once vibrant landmark became a hotspot for vandalism and unauthorized squatters, deteriorating its condition. Sawyer provided a candid assessment, noting that around 50% of the building is salvageable, while the remainder requires demolition.
Yet, the community's love for the Empire Theatre remains undiminished. In May 2021, residents rallied passionately to preserve the façade of the theatre. Orion Camero, a rally organizer, emphasized the community's enduring attachment to the historical landmark that has graced Stockton since 1945.
As for the theatre's future, discussions are underway. The revitalization plans hinge on potential grant money from Sacramento. Among the proposals is an integrated parking structure combined with commercial spots, aimed at addressing the Miracle Mile's parking needs. This structure could be complemented by one or two prominent restaurant locations and other commercial establishments. Additionally, modern housing options catering to graduate students at UOP and smaller families are being considered.
Drawing inspiration from successful urban renewal projects like Santana Row in San Jose, Sawyer envisions a seamless blend of parking, commercial, and residential spaces that retain the neighborhood's essence.
With expectations of a definitive project timeline in the next two to three months, Tina Wells Lee, board president of the Miracle Mile Improvement District, expresses optimism about the theatre's makeover. "I believe this revamp will boost morale and perhaps inspire others to invest in facade renovations," she said.
As the community eagerly awaits the Empire Theatre's transformation, Sawyer remains grateful for the city government's unwavering support and is determined to breathe life back into this iconic Stockton gem.
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