World War II Theater May Be Torn Down In Auburn To Make Way For Costco
AUBURN (CBS13) — The show may not go on much longer at a World War II-era theater in Auburn that could be torn down and replaced with a Costco.
The owners of the 70-year-old building say they've done everything they can to keep the building, but it wasn't enough—the county will likely decide on Tuesday to tear it down.
The theater currently serves as a performing-arts center for kids, but the Placer County Board of Supervisors could close the curtains for good.
The Dewitt Theater was originally built to entertain injured World War II soldiers, but it now houses the Music & More Arts Academy for kids.
The county contends the Costco that would replace it would create jobs and bring in millions to the community. They gave supporters a chance to raise nearly $1 million to fix it.
Theater owner Michael Coder says the group has put in a solid effort, but it may not be enough.
"We are up to $15,000 since august through donations and productions we have had in the theater," he said. "We have worked really hard to have 5 or 6 productions and we still have some scheduled."
The demolition of the theater could begin this summer if it is approved on Tuesday.