Tucson’s south side could get a spire sign much like the iconic Fox Theatre sign downtown, but on a much larger scale.
Texas-based Cinemark wants to build a 100-foot-tall spire sign that says “Century” for its new theater being built on the southwest corner of the Tucson Marketplace at the Bridges complex, near Interstate 10 and South Kino Parkway.
The vertical sign, which would be about as tall as an eight-story building, would be integrated into the building’s structure and a prominent feature of the front facade.
“This marquee design fits within this bustling commercial development, will help with pedestrian and vehicle way-finding in the Bridges, and serve as the iconic feature of the redevelopment of this key south-side property,” Rory Juneman, a lawyer representing the developers, said in a written statement.
Its design draws from a common theme of historic theaters and adds a little modern touch, he said.
The spire sign signifies a “movement,” said Tucson City Councilman Richard Fimbres, who represents Ward 5, in which the Tucson Marketplace complex is located. Economic development had slowed with the recession and now it’s kicking back in, he said. Tucson Marketplace at the Bridges is also getting an Asian buffet and a Dave & Buster’s in the near future, he noted.
“I think this is part of the renaissance of the south side,” he said.
The spire sign would draw people from the University of Arizona and downtown, and visitors traveling on the two interstates through Tucson, Fimbres said.
But before it can go up, the sign structure has to be approved by the Sign Code Advisory and Appeals Board. A hearing is set for April 13.
Cinemark’s proposed 100-foot spire sign would be considered an “integrated architectural feature,” which means it is part of the building and not subject to the same sizing limits as signs, said Russlyn Wells, the acting sign code administrator for the city of Tucson.
The large cross atop St. Mary’s Hospital is an example of what the city has approved as an integrated architectural feature, she said. Crosses used as part of religion are typically considered signs.
The Cinemark sign has the blessing of the Design Review Committee, which included representatives of neighborhood associations from the area.
“It’s a representation of the progress that we have waited so long to see,” said Cindy Ayala of the Pueblo Gardens Neighborhood Association, who served on that committee. “Now it’s here.”
The new theater will be the biggest Cinemark-owned theater in Tucson and will include amenities such as electronically reclining seats and food trays, she said.
“It’s a good thing for the neighborhood,” she said. “It’s a good thing for the ward. It’s a good thing for the city.”
The all-digital theater is projected to open later this year. Cinemark also owns the Century theaters at El Con, Park Place and Oro Valley Marketplace malls and the Century 12 theater near East Speedway and North Kolb Road.
