Jamaica, Queens is evolving – new retail centers and high rises are appearing, and many businesses are shutting down. One establishment scheduled to close in June is Showcase Cinema’s Jamaica Multiplex Cinema – Jamaica’s only movie theater.
According to QNS reporter Iryna Shkurhan, the closure is due to the lease not being extended. Construction plans indicate that Showcase Cinema’s College Point Multiplex Cinemas in Whitestone will likely close as well.
A Jamaica Multiplex security guard, John Willaims – also known as Big John – shared his thoughts regarding the closing circumstances. Williams stated, “Unemployment will occur, which is bad news for everyone.”
Since its construction in 2002, the theater has drawn visitors of all ages – from teenagers to senior citizens.
News of the planned closure has shaken some residents of the Jamaica, Queens community. Two college buddies who reside in Jamaica, Antoine Okeke and Amadi Morton, were taken aback. “Jamaica Avenue is being gentrified. Each time I come home, the avenue looks different. My jaw nearly dropped when I saw that Shake Shack was there,” Okeke said. He thought that some buildings, like the movie theater should stay because of history.
With the closure of the Jamaica Multiplex, the closest Queens movie theater will be in Fresh Meadows or Forest Hills.