Controversy in Scranton over movie theater lights
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Controversy in Lackawanna County over a new movie theater’s bright lights. Scranton zoning officials saying the lights are a violation and they have to turn them down.
28/22 News Reporter Gianna Galli spoke with managers at the theater about it.
The bright, lit-up, marquee you see above the Scranton cinema is made up of 1500 lights, lights that people 28/22 News spoke with love to see in the city of Scranton, but lights Scranton zoning officers say are a violation.
These bright multi-colored LED tube lights look pretty, but not everyone who sees them above the marquee at the Art Haus Theater agrees.
“I believe it’s a beautiful sign. More lights make this place look like New York City,” said Dunmore resident Winfield Cullen.
“We feel like we are improving the city and we want it to shine bright,” said Scranton Art Haus General Manager Noelle Snyder.
The final touches were completed a month ago, but as of Monday, Scranton zoning officials say they’re violating the city’s zoning ordinance.
A letter was issued by Scranton zoning officials Monday.
All uses shall direct, deflect, and shield lights and control the intensity and illuminated signs to avoid nuisances and to prevent glare onto other properties and streets.
Scranton City Zoning Officer Abraham Negron
The theater’s general manager claims they got the thumbs up from the city.
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“We went through all the proper channels with the zoning boards. We had approval,” Snyder said.
Within 30 days from the date of this order in order to comply with this order you must turn off lights when the theater closes and you must bring down the intensity of the lights as to not create nuisances for other properties.
Scranton City Zoning Officer Abraham Negron
According to the city of Scranton, complaints about the new lights prompted the violation.
“This isn’t a residential area it shouldn’t really be a distraction or should be bothering anybody. If anything it’s fine it should be something that entices people to come downtown and see what the building has to offer,” said Duryea resident Anthony Maluso.
Snyder says the lights will go off at midnight as opposed to staying on for 24 hours, but points out this isn’t the first theater with a bright marquee to be located there.
“There’s been different ways it’s been done, but the lights are just as bright as they are today. This is what a movie theater is in downtown Scranton. You are in the city,” Snyder added.
“Do you know how many different businesses have tried to make it in this corner? I think this is an excellent idea. Let’s let one business at least try to make it,” said Cullen.
28/22 News has reached out to the property manager we are awaiting a response
If the theater does not listen to the city, they could face a $500 fine every day if the lights are not turned down.
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