Not Quite Showtime for New Port Movie Theater

Jordan Desner had anticipated at Soundview Marketplace as early as Memorial Day. Now the theater may not open till late August at best.

As reported in Port Washington Patch, Soundview Marketplace, a 183,400-square-foot shopping center, , and that’s complicating the project, Desner said.

“I have a signed lease,” Desner says, noting that because of the foreclosure the lease is contingent on Nassau County Supreme Court approval.

With court approval, the deal can move forward, Desner said.

Desner is now awaiting the court on its decision.

“I thought having a tenant would only benefit the shopping center,” Desner said. “I didn’t think there would be so many obstacles. I thought it would be an easier approval process.”

Still, the ruling “could be any day,” Desner said. Then he can begin two months of construction to prepare the space.

Port Washington North Mayor Bob Weitzner pointed out that "legal issues are rarely resolved quickly."

"The village has been both persistent and at the same time accommodating towards bring a theatre back to Soundview," he added. "Bringing a theatre back to Soundview would be great for our community and the businesses in Soundview Marketplace."

Still, he noted, "bankruptcy and receivership is a time-consuming and complicated process. Port North looks forward to the judges decision and the restoration of a top quality theatre for the Port community to enjoy."

He agreed that the ruling could be imminent.

Desner hopes that’s the case.

“The second I get approval I’ll start construction,” he said.

For movie-lovers in the area, court approval for the theater would be welcome news.