Nampa's Edwards Cinema Demolished to Make Way for Sugar District Housing

Gardner Group plans up to 700 rental units on the former theater site

Mar. 27, 2026 at 9:51pm

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The demolition of the longstanding Edwards Cinema in Nampa, Idaho has begun, clearing the way for the Gardner Group to develop up to 700 rental housing units as part of the city's Sugar District. The theater had become a public nuisance due to ongoing vandalism issues, and with declining movie theater attendance nationwide, the site was no longer viable for its original purpose.

Why it matters

The redevelopment of the Edwards Cinema site is part of the broader revitalization of Nampa's Sugar District, which city officials hope will bring more family-friendly businesses, housing, and economic activity to the area. As Nampa continues to grow, the Sugar District is seen as a key location for future development near the Ford Idaho Center.

The details

Gardner Group managing partner David Wali is leading the demolition project, which is expected to take about two months. Usable materials from the theater will be salvaged and repurposed. The development agreement limits the site to for-rent housing, with around 700 units allowed. Factors like interest rates and the cost of construction materials will play a big role in determining the timeline for when the new housing projects can begin.

  • The Edwards Cinema closed in 2022.
  • Demolition of the theater began in March 2026.

The players

David Wali

A managing partner with the Gardner Group, the real estate developer leading the redevelopment of the former Edwards Cinema site.

Robyn Sellers

The director of economic development for the City of Nampa, who supports the growth and development plans for the Sugar District.

Amy Bowman

The director of communications for the Nampa mayor's office, who expressed the city's optimism about the Gardner Group's development projects.

Rick Hogaboam

The newly elected mayor of Nampa who passed away unexpectedly, requiring the city to appoint a new leader before the next election.

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What they’re saying

“I'm a huge advocate for reusing whenever possible, but in this particular case, the building was becoming a public nuisance more than anything else.”

— David Wali, Managing Partner, Gardner Group

“The theater just was not making it, and the numbers financially were just not there.”

— Amy Bowman, Director of Communications, Nampa Mayor's Office

“The Sugar District has so much more of a family focus and that allows our families to stay here and do activities together.”

— Amy Bowman, Director of Communications, Nampa Mayor's Office

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The redevelopment of the former Edwards Cinema site in Nampa's Sugar District highlights the city's efforts to transform the area into a more vibrant, family-friendly destination, with the Gardner Group playing a key role in attracting new businesses and housing to the region.