NEWBERG, Ore. — A defunct building on the 99W Drive-In property partially collapsed during a wind and rainstorm the night of Dec. 16, but the historic drive-in theater itself was not damaged and is expected to operate as usual next season.
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According to a statement posted by the Francis family, which owns and operates the drive-in, the collapse involved the former Indoor Twin Cinemas building, a structure that has been closed to the public for about a decade. No injuries were reported.
The family said the building sustained long-term structural issues following its construction in the 1980s, including persistent roof leaks and poor-quality materials. Combined with the cost of converting the space from 35mm film to digital projection, the owners decided years ago not to reopen the indoor theater.
“This part of the drive-in operation has been closed to the public for 10 years,” the family wrote on the Facebook post. “After repeatedly investing in roof leaks, added with the poor quality of wood used during its construction in the 1980s … we made the decision not to ever reopen that specific building again to the public.”
The drive-in theater, which dates back to 1953, operates independently from the indoor twin cinemas, and none of the drive-in’s essential equipment was damaged in the collapse, according to the family.
“We appreciate that the community at large is concerned, but the main operation of the theatre next spring should not be heavily affected,” the post said. “Right now, there’s no immediate need for concern.”
The drive-in is closed for the season and typically reopens in the spring, after the rainy season has passed.
To address the damage, the owners have launched a crowdfunding campaign seeking $2,600 to cover the cost of demolishing and cleaning up the collapsed structure. The funds would go toward permits, equipment, and labor needed to safely remove the building, with plans to eventually repurpose the space for additional parking spots for the drive-in.
The crowdfunding page notes that the 99W Drive-In is one of only two remaining drive-in theaters in Oregon. Organizers said removing the damaged structure will help ensure the long-term viability of the business and preserve the moviegoing experience it offers.
“With your help, we can do this,” the campaign states. “This crowdfunding campaign simply wishes to cover the cost of permits, equipment, and labor for the demolition and cleanup of the collapsed twin cinema to ensure the drive-in experience is untouched.”
The Francis family said they will continue to provide updates as cleanup plans move forward.
