22-Screen Theater Wins OK Over Protests

A controversial proposal for a 22-screen movie theater complex along Birch Street downtown won City Council approval this week. Under the plan, Edwards Cinemas would add 10 screens to the 12-screen complex that was approved by the council in 1991 but never built. The cinemas would be the anchor of a pedestrian-oriented retail, shopping and entertainment area on Birch Street west of Brea Boulevard.

Two dozen residents spoke at a public hearing that lasted nearly five hours Tuesday. The council then voted 3 to 1 in favor of the expansion, with Councilwoman Bev Perry abstaining.

“Now we’ll have that economic anchor, or base, that will draw other businesses,” Mayor Burnie Dunlap said. “Without that, it’s harder to attract the smaller, boutique-type stores--those other unique things that will revitalize the area and create a downtown spirit.”

Once the section of Birch Street is completed, city officials envision a lively shopping and entertainment area, with walkways, fountains, benches and eating areas.

Although most residents who spoke voiced support for the downtown project, some complained that the 22-screen complex would bring more traffic congestion and diminish the small-town feel of the area.

Councilwoman Kathryn E. Wiser, who voted against the plan, said she was swayed by their comments.

“I think the 22 theaters is really far removed from what the original vision for downtown was,” Wiser said. “It’s too much. The citizens of Brea don’t want 22 theaters.”

A $2-million project to improve the streets and infrastructure of the area is to begin in the next few months, with the movie theaters and other businesses planned for the summer of 1997. The project also will include two 900-space parking structures.