HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The Queen Theater in Kaimuki has been an eye-sore for decades. The city is threatening to take over if the owner doesn't do something about it soon.
The Queen Theater atop Waialae Avenue - built in 1936, vacant since 1985. She's definitely seen better days.
"We've been looking to restore that for a loooong time," said Tommy Waters, Honolulu council chair. "I've been waiting for the owner to step up their game, and at this point we're considering condemnation."
Waters initally introduced a bill 3 years ago but pulled it because the owner said he'd work on it. But nothing's happened.
"Just like Diamond Head is to Hawaii, Queen Theater is Kaimuki," said Lori Yamada, Envision Kaimuki Director.
"Every time I see it, it's an eye sore," said Susie Kam. "You have to fix em up."
Now, the owner's daughter says she's in charge of the redevelopment and ready to move forward immediately.
"I grew up in Kaimuki, I understand the importance of the Queen to the community and I fully committed to revitalizing the theater and create a space the community deserves and can enjoy once again," said Adoree Yu, Queen Theater owner.
"If they could bring something here that could be like all the others coming up, it would be like only benefit the community more," said Sheryl Siu, Kaimuki resident.
"I think Kaimuki is being revitalized," said Deanna Hayashida, Hawaii Kai resident. "Has lot of real good businesses yeah. I think once they come and pick up little bit, oh this is the hub."
Yu says work is planned in 3 phases.
Phase 1 is to fix the exterior - sign, marquee, facade, new paint, and security which could be completed April 2024.
Phase 2 is the interior lobby and 2nd floor, to prepare for possible tenants. That could be completed by the end of 2025.
And phase 3 would be renovating the auditorium.
"I wanna emphasize that these plans are flexible and that I'm committed to a continuing partnership with the community and want to ensure that needs and concerns are addressed," said Yu.
Yu says she has the money for the first two phases. And can get financing for the rest.
For now, the bill passed committee and will go to the full council.
"If the owner does take care of it, and fixes it, and allows the community to use it, that's the best thing that could happen," said Waters.