Former Cargill Theater Will Be Demolished
The city and property owners have outlined a plan to raze the historic Longview building within two years.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Longview officials and owners of the former Cargill Theater are moving forward with plans to demolish the structure located on Texas 31. The building is expected to be torn down within 18 to 24 months to address long-standing safety and code violations.
Why it matters
The site has been designated a nuisance building due to its poor condition and the theft of its electrical infrastructure. Property owners are currently working to meet specific benchmarks to satisfy municipal code requirements and avoid further court intervention.
The project to remove the former theater, which originally seated 1,250 patrons, carries an estimated cost of $500,000. Plans include full asbestos abatement and total site demolition within the next 18 to 24 months.
The players
Cargill Theater
This former entertainment venue operated on Texas 31 for decades before its 2013 closure.
Gorman-McCracken Volkswagen
This automotive dealership currently owns the property and is coordinating with city officials on the building site.
The details
Gorman-McCracken Volkswagen, the current owner of the property, is working to secure the building after its interior systems were compromised by theft. Workers began installing metal panels over the lobby on October 6, 2026, to prevent further unauthorized access while the demolition plan is finalized.
Timeline
May 23, 1968: The theater opened for business with a seating capacity of 1,250.
May 27, 2013: The facility officially ceased operations as Movies 9.
October 6, 2026: Metal security panels were installed on the building exterior.
18 to 24 months: The projected timeframe for the eventual demolition of the structure.
Market Landscape
The demolition project follows the standard enforcement and remediation procedures established by the city of Longview municipal nuisance building abatement protocols for addressing dilapidated commercial structures. This move reflects a broader trend of local governments requiring property owners to clear safety hazards in high-traffic corridors.
Residents and local motorists should expect intermittent construction activity and site work along Texas 31 as the property is prepared for demolition. The clearance of this nuisance building will eventually remove a long-standing eyesore, potentially improving the local commercial aesthetic.
The takeaway
Property owners looking to avoid municipal court action must adhere to strict maintenance benchmarks set by city officials. Securing vacant properties remains a critical step for owners to manage liability and satisfy local safety codes.
Further reading
For more on property developments in the area, visit the Longview Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Longview News-Journal.
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