A movie theater that has sat dark in Coram for years could soon get a nostalgic new beginning.
The owner of the popular retro arcade Game On says he plans to transform the former Coram Movieland into a new entertainment destination featuring a movie theater, arcade and retro game store.
The proposal is already generating excitement among residents who say the project could become a major attraction for families across Long Island.
“Classic arcade games” and timeless films could soon bring a piece of nostalgia back to Coram, offering visitors a chance to relive the past while creating new memories.
A “coming soon” sign outside the vacant building has sparked buzz throughout the community, with many hoping the space will draw people to eat, play and spend money locally.
“For us, it’s just like a generational thing,” said Mount Sinai resident Erich Liendo. “I grew up with it in the ’80s. My daughter and her boyfriend, you know, ’90s, 2000s. My son, also the same thing.”
According to the owner of Game On, plans for the retro entertainment hub include screenings of 1980s and 1990s films, new movie releases and unlimited arcade play, all at family-friendly prices.
The theater has remained vacant since closing in 2023.
Coram Civic Association President Kareem Nugdalla says the closure dealt a blow to nearby businesses and reduced foot traffic in the Pine Plaza shopping center, which also lost a supermarket and restaurant.
“That definitely didn’t help the economic impact,” Nugdalla said.
He says the redevelopment could provide a much-needed boost for the local economy.
“A lot of people are very excited about it,” Nugdalla said. “Everyone’s been talking about it on Facebook and Nextdoor and these social media sites. The buzz is out there.”
While an official opening date has not been announced, residents say they are eager to see the empty space transformed into a community gathering spot once again.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source connecticut.news12.com ’
