Prince William

Chamber: Build Costco

The old Multiplex movie theater on U.S. 1 in Mt. Vernon is now boarded up.

Mount Vernon, Va. –– An area chamber of commerce supports turning the site of an old movie theater into a big box store.

The Multiplex Cinemas that for years was home to ten movie screens is now closed.

The next possible tenant in the space: Costco Wholesale Club.

“While this may not be the “highest and best” use of this land, it is a substantial investment in the economic re-development of Richmond Highway. The Multiplex site has been vacant for months and has been an eyesore and public safety nuisance while the owners waited for a development proposal,” said Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce President Michael Gailliot.

The site of the proposed development sits on U.S. 1 just north of the Mt. Vernon area.

Long eyed for redevelopment, Gailliot says Costco would bring with it $24 million in new investment to the corridor and 300 new jobs.

“They have presented an environmentally responsible plan for development. Their reputation as a quality retailer will draw many customers to the area and benefit all the businesses on Richmond Highway,” said Gailliot.