FROM REELS TO REALITY: THE FORMER SOUTHWEST TWIN DRIVE-IN TO OFFICIALLY BREAK GROUND FOR CITY-FUNDED DEVELOPMENT IN WESTWOOD
MEMPHIS—The site of the former Southwest Twin Drive-In will welcome shovels on Friday, May 16 to signal construction of new development spurred by the City of Memphis, including the future home of Memphis Public Libraries’ Levi branch and a new Memphis Police Department precinct.
“For too long, this 30-acre site was overlooked and undervalued, but the City of Memphis believes in the community-lifting power of this space,” said Mayor Paul Young. “That’s why we’ve invested here and will continue to invest. What we’ve seen through the past few seasons at the old Southwest Twin is proof: there’s real strength and pride in this neighborhood, and we’re committed to making sure its needs are finally met.”
The Southwest Twin Drive-In, originally known as the 61 Drive-In, was established in 1956 as Memphis’ second-ever drive-in movie theater. In 2001, the Southwest Twin closed its doors, and over time, the blighted property became a source of concern for neighboring communities. In 2022, the City of Memphis and Shelby County invested in a new plan for the Southwest Twin led by the City’s Division of Housing & Community Development.
Through a series of three onsite activations in 2023 and five community events with a finale celebration in 2024, the site successfully fostered and demonstrated the importance of authentic community involvement, the benefits of repurposing an underutilized area, and the potential opportunities for economic development. From cleaning up the site and building furniture, to movie nights, arts & crafts, gardening workshops, vendor marketplaces, a community mural, partners not only engaged with local stakeholders and ensured community ownership but also introduced partnerships from around the city to prove that the site could serve as a catalyst for positive change in the Westwood area.
Baldwin & Shell Construction Company has been selected as the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) for the Southwest Twin redevelopment on behalf of the City of Memphis. Allworld Project Management serves as Owner’s Representative and Program Manager. Aaron Patrick Architects (APA) is architect of record alongside 4FDesign and O.T. Marshall Architects. While the library and police precinct will be constructed, the City simultaneously welcomes additional private development and investment ahead for the site.
The ceremonial groundbreaking will take place on Friday, May 16.
WHO: City of Memphis and City of Memphis Housing & Community Development Division
WHAT: Southwest Twin Groundbreaking Ceremony
WHEN: Friday, May 16, 2025 | 11:30 am
WHERE: 4233 South Third Street | Adjacent to Walgreens on Raines
###
