This thing about the IMAX theater subsidy from the student… err, city council is just one more example of Sacramento making it a priority to bring features into the city that residents just don’t want. Has anyone heard of a subsidy for the Crest? It seems unlikely that this has ever happened. Well, it’s only the latest detail in a history of public infatuation with IMAX.
In 1998, the city gave $6 million to the Esquire Plaza’s previous
owners – led by developer David Taylor. That project included office
space and the 450-seat IMAX theater.
The city gave the money on the condition that IMAX remain open for at
least five years. When it became clear that IMAX was struggling,
Taylor’s group reduced the theater’s rent in its second year.
I’m not saying there isn’t a place for the giant screen at IMAX and the … also giant screen down the way at The Crest. I’m not saying people should not eat at Macaroni Grill or Olive Garden. All I’m saying is, if the IMAX is failing, couldn’t that be because it is not competetive? Couldn’t it be because K Street has become a terrible location for any business? If the Crest is thriving, which I assume it is since it’s still in business, couldn’t that be because it is giving the people something they want?
The Sac Rag 