Allston residents have still not met with Staples developers to discuss a controversial plan to replace Harvard Avenue’s Allston Cinema with the area’s second office supply superstore.
Along with the demolition of the theater, which screens Indian films, the project will force out 14 nonprofit organizations that have offices in the cinema building.
But Staples spokeswoman Julie Mittelman said the company has received few complaints about the project and has been working closely with community members.
“It’s been pretty easy. We have been working with the community and the city on the process.” she said. “We just want to make sure we are taking care of whatever needs need to be met.”
Allston Civic Association president Paul Berkeley said, however, that the company’s expansion into Allston is detrimental to the neighborhood.
“When I look at what we’re losing, I think we are giving up something unique for something more mainstream,” he said. “And I think uniqueness is what makes Allston great.”
However, Berkeley said there is little Allston can do to keep the “uniqueness” of the organizations using the Allston Cinema.
“It is just kind of sad that it is replacing what is there – it is replacing an Indian theater – and we like that kind of thing for our community,” he said. “We feel like the larger stores should be in mall areas, but that is commerce. You can’t always dictate what happens.”
The destruction of the Allston Cinema will also displace the Rock and Roll Library, a non-profit online music information site. Anne Fitzpatrick, the executive director of the library, said she is constantly looking for a new place to move but hopes to stay in the Allston area.
“We would very much like to stay in Allston. There are some spaces available, and we are still trying to find the best space,” Fitzpatrick said. “Obviously, the rent is going to be an issue. We are looking for the most space we can afford.”
Some of the nonprofits housed at the Allston Cinema may not be able to survive the cost of moving. Fitzpatrick said Staples’ presence in the Allston economy will hurt more than just the businesses that are being displaced by its construction.
“I think that there are other spaces available in Allston. It is a matter of if people can afford them,” she said. “Staples will also impact other businesses such as printing companies or supplies stores that aren’t housed at 214 Harvard.”
Fitzpatrick also said she did not think Staples fit into Allston’s atmosphere.
“Large stores can be good neighbors to the community and to local business,” Fitzpatrick said, “but it is yet to be seen if Staples will be such a good neighbor.”
Berkeley said he also thinks Staples could hurt the community, but said the office supply superstore could bring something positive to Allston – including 35 part- and full-time jobs for local workers.
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