Movie Theater Demolished To Make Way For Large Pawcatuck Development

STONINGTON, CT — A former movie theater in Pawcatuck was demolished Thursday to make way for massive multi-use project.

The former Regal Cinemas was located at 465 Liberty St. and closed in 2022.

Construction will begin on a $70-to-$80-million project, including 232 multi-family apartments. The approved development also includes 10,000 square feet of commercial space, and 30,000 square feet dedicated to recreational facilities, according to a statement from READCO and its development partners.

The project, dubbed Stonington Village, will have an amenity center including a 6,000-square-foot clubhouse with fitness center, outdoor pool, patio, dog run, and pickleball courts.

“We are very excited to break ground on this fantastic new development marking the beginning of a transformation along Route 2,” Michael Lech, CEO of READCO, said in a statement. “With high quality construction, great amenities, and being centrally located, it will be very appealing to the community."

READCO is a third-generation family business based in Old Lyme.

Stonington Village is a designated Neighborhood Design District, one of only five such zones in Stonington. The district is intended to promote mixed-use developments that blend residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to conform to the community's character and enhance walkability.