Continuing Classics? Drive-In Theatre Seeks Permit Extension
By: Kim Behrens
Updated: September 10, 2012
PEORIA--Zachary Washburn has spent nearly every day at the Landmark Drive-In theatre since it opened earlier this summer.
"I could probably tell you the dialogue for Shrek, American Graffiti, E.T. and Risky Business backwards and forward," laughs Washburn.
The Landmark Cinemas General Manager wanted to find a way to earn more money for the venue.
Using a projector, big screen, and lots of available parking, he gave new life...to an old pastime.
"We get dozens of cars coming up and asking questions, they just can't believe this is really happening right here," said Washburn.
On the night the screen debuted the parking lot was filled with nearly 200 cars.
Landmark Cinemas hopes to extend that success.
That's why it's asking the city for another temporary use permit until it can make the screen a full-time feature.
Problem is, only one can be issued.
"The ordinance is very clear. If they want to do this on a permanent basis going forward, there has to be an opportunity for public input," explained Planning and Growth Assistant Director Ross Black.
The city says it's a matter of ethics.
If it grants the theatre another extension without community feedback, staff worry it could become a habit for other start up projects.
"At what point does the temporary use basically become permanent, because you keep getting these temporary permits," said Black.
While the theatre understands the city's process, it says it just wants to continue giving audiences a taste of classic entertainment.
"It's just another venue for us to show these movies to help people relive fond memories of the past," said Washburn.
Landmark Cinemas hopes the city shares that understanding so their outdoor screen can light up once again.
Forecasting Ahead:
The issue heads to City Council tomorrow night.
Members will vote whether to extend the temporary use permit through October.
At that point, they'll decide whether to make the venue a permanent addition.
"I could probably tell you the dialogue for Shrek, American Graffiti, E.T. and Risky Business backwards and forward," laughs Washburn.
The Landmark Cinemas General Manager wanted to find a way to earn more money for the venue.
Using a projector, big screen, and lots of available parking, he gave new life...to an old pastime.
"We get dozens of cars coming up and asking questions, they just can't believe this is really happening right here," said Washburn.
On the night the screen debuted the parking lot was filled with nearly 200 cars.
Landmark Cinemas hopes to extend that success.
That's why it's asking the city for another temporary use permit until it can make the screen a full-time feature.
Problem is, only one can be issued.
"The ordinance is very clear. If they want to do this on a permanent basis going forward, there has to be an opportunity for public input," explained Planning and Growth Assistant Director Ross Black.
The city says it's a matter of ethics.
If it grants the theatre another extension without community feedback, staff worry it could become a habit for other start up projects.
"At what point does the temporary use basically become permanent, because you keep getting these temporary permits," said Black.
While the theatre understands the city's process, it says it just wants to continue giving audiences a taste of classic entertainment.
"It's just another venue for us to show these movies to help people relive fond memories of the past," said Washburn.
Landmark Cinemas hopes the city shares that understanding so their outdoor screen can light up once again.
Forecasting Ahead:
The issue heads to City Council tomorrow night.
Members will vote whether to extend the temporary use permit through October.
At that point, they'll decide whether to make the venue a permanent addition.
