New Theater Project Attracting Tenants

Despite complaints that a downtown theater complex would fail to attract enough patrons, city officials said new businesses are already committing to opening near the facility.

City Manager Ed Sotelo said that Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt of California is close to leasing a space, while Good Thai & Peruvian Restaurant, Quizno’s Classic Subs and Fresh Mex Bar & Grill are negotiating with officials.

City officials hope the project will have the same effect as the theater in revitalized downtown Ventura, which features one of each of the tenants named by Oxnard officials.

In May, the Oxnard City Council voted unanimously to ask the federal government for a $12.1-million loan to help fund construction of the theater and entertainment project, which will include a $3-million, multilevel parking structure.

A number of Oxnard activists and businessmen have criticized the project, calling it “irresponsible” and saying the location is wrong.

The theater is expected to open early next year, officials said.

A $1.1-million Economic Development Initiative federal grant will be used to repay the first year’s interest on the loan, allowing time for the project to be developed and for the theater to begin generating revenue, Sotelo said.

The city has contracted with local developer Victor Georgino. The theater itself is expected to cost $8.5 million to $9.5 million and include 10,000 square feet of commercial space, officials said.