2011 UPDATES

SF Gate reports Jan. 27: "[New Mission Theater owner, Gus Murad] originally intended to build a market-rate condo project on the Value Giant site and use the profits to restore and develop the New Mission Theater. But complaints that Murad was using his political ties to former Mayor Gavin Newsom to push the project, combined with concerns about putting high-priced condos on Mission Street, stalled the project."

Per Murad's spokesman, P.J. Johnson: "The sale (of the Value Giant and New Mission Theater sites) is more a negotiation to bring in new investors to jump-start the stalled development."

Heather Smith of Mission Local reports Jan. 26 the New Mission Theater is once again up for sale, this time separately from the adjacent Giant Value property. Reportedly under negotiation is its purchase by a New York company planning an ambitious nightclub venue. The realtor cites historical considerations, "Because it’s historic, you have to keep everything original. From the balcony to the urinals."

OCTOBER 11, 2006

At a special meeting of the Landmarks Board at the New Mission Theater, owner Gus Murad's architects, Kerman/Morris Architects, unveiled impressive plans to restore and rennovate the theater. The plan is to use the space as a nightclub/restaurant venue using the stage for concerts and DVD projection. The adjacent Giant Value property, included in the theater's purchase from City College in 2003, is to play a contingent role in funding the New Mission's work. Pending approval from the Planning Commission, the Giant Value space will have commercial space at the street level and residential condos above. Murad intends to fast-track the restoration of the theater once the plans are approved.

The architect reported that while the auditorium area was in surprisingly good condition, the ceiling over the entry way and the unstable walls of the outer lobby area require considerable work. Interest was voiced at the meeting that the New Mission's continued capability to project 35mm film should be an important consideration. The pictures below show the building as it appeared on the day of the Landmarks Board hearing. The graffiti much on display was the result of a rave event held in April 2006.

EXTERNAL LINKS

Buildings for Sale — John Wildermuth, SF Chronicle, 01-27-2011

Owner of Medjool and Roof Top Bar Puts Mission Real Estate Up for Sale — Heather Smith, Mission Local, 01-26-2011

New Debate Surrounds New Mission Theater — Rebecca Bowe, SF Bay Guardian, 07-29-2010

Accidental Gift: New Mission Theater Condos Can Be Taller — Andy J. Wang, Curbed SF, 02-04-2009

New Mission To Have New Use — SF Examiner, 10-14-2006

Big Screen Revival — Patrick Hoge, SF Chronicle 04-23-2006