The Caldwell Cinema is not just a building; it was once a vibrant community space for the residents of Caldwell and neighboring towns. It stands as one of the last remaining walkable neighborhood movie theaters in Essex County and has been an integral part of our cultural and architectural heritage for over 100 years. 

If saved and restored, this theatre has the potential to be a vibrant entertainment destination - generating local foot traffic and bringing people of all ages to Bloomfield Avenue. Reviving this space is the kind of magic our community is so desperately craving right now.

The current redevelopment plan threatens to erase this vital piece of our history by replacing it with townhouses and retail spaces. Yet, we see a potential for revival in keeping with its original purpose. The recent success of Montclair Film in restoring the Bellevue Theatre gives us a blueprint and hope for the future of Caldwell Cinemas.

We believe that with community support and creative solutions, we can bring life and magic back to this space. Preserving our historic theater is more than just saving bricks and mortar; it’s about enriching community life and retaining a vital piece of our cultural heritage. Together, we can ensure that future generations enjoy the same cultural richness that has shaped our community.

Join us in urging the Caldwell Council and Planning Board to reconsider the redevelopment plans and explore options that preserve the integrity of Caldwell Cinemas. Let's advocate for sustainable changes that respect our history while meeting the community's needs. The Ave is already riddled with countless vacant store fronts and car traffic. Let’s encourage the property owner and developer to explore adaptive reuse options that preserve and restore the historic theater marquee, lobby, and auditorium while allowing new residential or commercial uses above or beside it if necessary. Let’s work with preservation experts and the community to find a creative solution that keeps this piece of Caldwell history alive.

If we allow Caldwell Cinemas to be redeveloped, it will be gone forever. It has already been dark for far too long. Let’s do all that we can to light it up again. Please sign this petition to help us save it.