BETHLEHEM, Pa. (WLVT) - The Boyd Theatre dates back to the 1920s as an "iconic theatre in the City of Bethlehem," but now, redevelopment is in the picture for that area of Broad St. on Bethlehem's north side.
Mayor Bob Donchez with the City of Bethlehem said the theatre is privately owned by a man named Charles Jefferson. He purchased the property about two years ago, according to the mayor. Right now, Jefferson has plans to demolish the building and turn it into a retail-living district, with up to 120 apartments. “The more people you bring downtown and the more people that live downtown, the more vibrant your downtown’s going to be, so I think that block has a lot of potential," said Mayor Donchez.
Bethlehem resident, Ryan Thorpe, has vivid memories of the Boyd Theatre. “I used to take my mom all the time," said Thorpe. He is aware of the plans to demolish the building. Even though plans aren't finalized, he said he doesn't want to see the theatre go away. "I just wish they would bring it back and I'd be a happy camper," said Thorpe.
"It really was very majestic," said Mayor Donchez. "Actually, it was my favorite movie theatre growing up." Even though it was his favorite, Mayor Donchez said the block is underutilized now, so it needs redevelopment.
Mayor Donchez said he has a meeting scheduled with Jefferson in May to go over the financial package and design for the building. After that, Jefferson will have a chance to submit final plans to the city, and Mayor Donchez said they will go forward from that point. "That area right there is prime for development right now, and we want to make sure we do everything as a city to make it successful," said Mayor Donchez.
