Seattle’s Pacific Science Center is selling a portion of its property to the owners of the Space Needle, including the Boeing IMAX Theater. The private nonprofit is divesting 20%–25% of its total property. The sale also includes Building 1, the Carnevali Pavilion, and part of the Ackerley Family Exhibit Gallery.
PacSci President and CEO Will Daugherty told The Seattle Times on Tuesday that the organization has finalized a sale agreement with Space Needle LLC. Read on for answers to all of your questions.
Will the Boeing IMAX Theater continue to exist?
Yes. Space Needle CEO Ron Sevart told The Seattle Times that the Boeing IMAX Theater will remain open as a movie theater. “We’re excited to partner with Pacific Science Center in continuing the availability of two IMAX theaters on the Seattle Center Campus,” Sevart said, adding that, “We haven’t explored any use other than as an IMAX theater.”
However, moviegoers should anticipate a temporary disruption. A “brief renovation” of the theater is slated for completion in May, with the goal of upgrading concessions and improving the arrival experience. It is not yet known when construction will begin.
What about the Paccar IMAX Theater?
PacSci will retain operations of the smaller Paccar IMAX Theater. During the Boeing IMAX renovation this spring, certain screenings may be shifted to the Paccar theater.
Why is this sale happening?
PacSci leaders said that by 2023 it had become evident the nonprofit would need to sell part of its real estate holdings in order to remain viable. The science center has faced financial strain since the pandemic, contending with higher costs and broader economic pressures. Daugherty said proceeds from the sale will support ongoing operations and help pay for long-anticipated upgrades to the aging campus and facilities…