Alamo Drafthouse is partnering with the city of Richardson to renovate the Richardson Heights location.

A company spokesperson said renovation work will begin in late January and will include recliner seating in every auditorium; new carpet, wallpaper, and decor; and improving the overall theater ambiance. Renovations will not include audio/visual equipment upgrades.

The theater will remain open during renovations, which the city is contributing a total of $400,000 toward.

According to a news release issued by city of Richardson officials, the location holds community significance because it is located in Richardson’s first shopping center, Richardson Heights Village. The shopping center was built in the 1950s following the expansion of North Central Expressway in Richardson city limits.

“In 2012, we specifically sought Alamo Drafthouse to serve as an anchor destination for the Richardson Heights neighborhood because we knew it would provide a unique cinematic experience that would serve as a catalyst to revitalize the entire area,” Richardson Mayor Bob Dubey said in the news release.


Alamo Drafthouse first opened in San Antonio in 1997. Along with showing new films and original programming, the company also serves food, cocktails and beer.

“Richardson was the first theater we ever opened in Dallas-Fort Worth, and the community that has built up around it is truly incredible,” said Bill DiGaetano, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema North Texas and Twin Cities CEO, in a statement. “We want our guests to have the amazing cinema experience that they deserve, and with these upgrades I think we’re on the right track.”