The former AMC theater on Bloomington’s eastside has officially changed ownership, with Curry Limited Partnership acquiring the nearly 8-acre property located at 1351 S. College Mall Road for $5.28 million. The transaction was finalized on January 30, 2026, and local records indicate a significant investment in an area that has seen its share of transformation.
Situated at the northeast intersection of East Moores Pike and South College Mall Road, the site had an assessed value of approximately $1.6 million. The previous owner had purchased the property in 2007 for $6.3 million. The theater complex, which ceased operations in September 2023 due to rising maintenance costs and the aging infrastructure, had become a topic of concern among local residents long before its closure.
Curry Limited Partnership, established in 1998 and led by Cary K. Curry, has ties to the local community through its ownership of various commercial properties, including a well-known independent bookstore. Joseph Curry, a limited partner, mentioned that although they have discussed potential developments for the site, there are no immediate plans at this moment.
The future of this prominent location remains open-ended, with several possibilities on the horizon. Given the partnership’s established presence in the area and the property’s position near major retail corridors, it could be redeveloped for commercial purposes, potentially offering auto-related services, or transformed into a mixed-use retail center. Any redevelopment will necessitate community review and permitting, an essential step in ensuring that local interests are addressed, especially in support of job creation and local business growth.
This acquisition occurs against the backdrop of a changing landscape in the movie exhibition industry. The traditional cinema model is evolving, as new consumer preferences emerge, combining cinematic experiences with subscription-based leisure activities. This shift influences how theater properties are valued, particularly as direct-to-consumer releases become more prevalent.
As the situation develops, the sale of the 1351 S. College Mall Road property will be significant to watch. Its sale price highlights the changing dynamics in the valuation of legacy theater real estate amid a larger narrative of transformation in mid-sized American cities. Filmogaz will keep an eye on any new permitting filings or statements from Curry Limited Partnership regarding potential redevelopment plans, providing insights into the future use of this important local landmark.