Increased Seating, Parking Proposed for Theater

The Inter-Media Arts Center (IMAC) was an icon in Huntington for 26 years, known as a concert venue for jazz, blues, folk and other types of music. When it closed its doors in June 2009 many were saddened. But a new state-of-the-art performing arts center, owned by Paramount Theater, LLC, will be moving in at some point in the future, and was discussed at Wednesday's Town of Huntington Planning Board meeting.

According to Paramount Theater's Attorney Michael McCarthy, when IMAC closed its doors many Huntington residents were concerned about the empty space on New York Avenue.

"Paramount wants to create a live band venue; younger bands with a wide diversity," McCarthy said. "But a special use permit is needed for 192 increased parking spaces, an additional seating increase from 700 seats to approximately 1,650 and Paramount would like to expand the size of the theater."

Huntington Public Information Officer A.J. Carter confirmed that a July 29 hearing is scheduled before the Zoning Board of Appeals on the application by Paramount Theater, LLC, for a special use permit involving the building that formerly housed the IMAC.

"The town is withholding comment about the parking and seating expansion at this time, pending the outcome of that hearing," Carter said.

Planning Board Director of Planning Anthony Alosio said that the Paramount Theater will be a $5-$6 million renovation.

"The sales area on the second floor will be eliminated," Alosio explained. "The stage will be relocated and there will be a balcony along the side of the theater."

Huntington Patch will have complete coverage of the Thursday, July 29, Town of Huntington Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting during which a decision will be made pertaining to the special use permit.