Pittsburgh's Premier Multiplex Undergoes Major Upgrade

PITTSBURGH, PA — Patrons of one of the city's most popular theaters now have a regal setting in which to watch movies.

A quarter of a century after its opening, the AMC Waterfront 22 in Homestead has received a major multi-million dollar makeover. The results were impressive during a media tour Wednesday highlighting the renovations.

Seating capacity in many of the theaters has been reduced by about 50 percent. The new seats are stadium-style and have recliner or rocker style chairs. The reclining seats have a two-setting heating element.

The changes don't just apply to the individual theaters. The cafe near the primary refreshment stand has been renovated into MacGuffins, a full-service bar with food options.

Additionally, the remodeled interior includes significant upgrades to the theater's lobby, hallways, and restrooms, as well as new flooring, lighting, and an updated concessions area.

The renovations took six months to complete. Each of the two sides of the theater was shut down in turn for remodeling, but operations continued throughout.

Overall, seating capacity has been reduced from 4,200 to 2,300. That is significant.

The seating reduction means fewer parking spaces near the theater are necessary. The parking lot behind the AMC now can be developed into restaurant or retail locations.