The City Council voted unanimously on November 17 to award $1.97 million in Community Preservation Act funds to West Newton Cinema Foundation for 50% of the cost of the first of four phases to repair and renovate the historic West Newton Cinema, built in 1937.
The Foundation is committed to raising the other half of the $4 million cost of the first phase. It is now seeking Lead Gifts to complete the match for the first phase and begin funding subsequent phases of the renovation.
Foundation president Elizabeth Heilig says that the total cost of the renovation is estimated to be $19 million. The design of the work is based on a feasibility study, now completed, that was funded in part by matching grants from the Massachusetts Cultural Council and the Community Preservation Program. Heilig said that the Foundation hopes to apply for more CPA funding in the future.
According to the Community preservation program manager’s presentation to the Zoning and Planning Committee, the first phase of construction includes:
- Roof replacement (the first priority and the largest part of the project)
- Replacement and repair of all egress doors (including automatic openers for accessibility)
- Electric service upgrade (to prepare for installation of an elevator)
- Interior and exterior insulation
- Upgraded water service (to support future accessibility improvements)
- Interior work in the lobby, mezzanine, and vestibule to address water damage (using historically appropriate paint colors, new carpeting, and restored original finishes)
The elevator, to be installed in the second phase of renovation, is needed because the four upstairs theaters are not accessible except by the stairs. Other work in later phases will include replacing oil-fired burners and installing solar panels.
The Cinema will remain open throughout construction, with films and community programs continuing on their regular schedule.
Foundation president Heilig said, “We are so pleased and grateful for the Newton City Council’s unanimous support to preserve the Cinema as a vital cultural and historic asset for our region. In the coming months, we will begin to realize our vision of a theater that is as beautiful and comfortable as it is well-loved. Roof work has already begun. Construction is being carefully planned to ensure safe access and uninterrupted operations for patrons.”
The Foundation saved the Cinema from demolition in 2024 by purchasing it for $5.6 million, including $5.2 million from an anonymous benefactor. It now operates the Cinema as an independent movie theater and cultural center.
