AMC Evanston 12 will temporarily close from Monday until early 2027 for renovations, the company announced in a Tuesday news release. The theater will downsize by five screens as developers look to construct a mixed-use high-rise on the property.
The renovation will also upgrade each auditorium with “spacious recliner seating designed to provide guests with greater comfort and personal space,” according to the release. Additional improvements will include new carpeting and paint, renovated restrooms and “enhancements throughout the theatre’s common areas,” the release read.
“When this project is complete, moviegoers will enjoy a dramatically enhanced experience from the moment they walk through the front doors until the credits roll,” wrote Dan Ellis, AMC’s executive vice president and chief operations, development and marketing officer. “We are excited to bring luxury recliner seating and a completely refreshed theatre environment to our guests in Evanston.”
In September 2025, Continuum Development acquired Church Street Plaza, the site of the proposed 26-story tower which currently houses AMC. Since then, former tenant Chili’s Evanston has permanently closed, and dog daycare center Dogtopia has relocated.
The tower’s plans call for 360 units, including 72 designated as affordable housing. The city has not yet set a timeline for reviewing the proposal.
In Tuesday’s release, Continuum co-founder Evan Meador stressed the theater’s long-term future.
“AMC is a vital anchor of downtown Evanston’s commercial district, and we’re thrilled to continue our relationship with them at Church Street Plaza following a substantial renovation that will ensure the theatre remains part of the local business community for years to come,” Meador wrote.
When the theater reopens next year, the location will be renamed AMC Evanston 7, reflecting its seven remaining screens.
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