The Twin Hi-Way Drive-In movie theater in Robinson has closed.
“It is with great sadness that we make this final post. Due to many circumstances far far beyond our control, the Twin Hi-Way Drive-In has closed its doors,” the owner posted on Facebook Tuesday.
The impending closure of the drive-in caused public outcry in the fall when it was announced that Sheetz Inc. was planning to build a gas station, convenience store, car wash and drive-thru eatery on a portion of the theater property. At that time, many supporters of the drive-in turned out for a public hearing to oppose the proposed plan, which required the subdivision of 3.68 acres parallel to Route 60 at the corner of Moon Run Road.
Residents voiced concerns over increased traffic, an overabundance of gas stations and the loss of a nostalgic landmark.
Supporters at the time created an online petition against the closure, which received more than 3,900 signatures.
Because Jerry K. Salnoris, owner, president and chief executive officer of Twin Hi-Way since 2007, does not own the property, he had little say in the decision.
Officials had said the land would be sold to a development firm regardless of the outcome. The township’s planning commission reviewed and accepted the application in August.
The 1950s landmark on Steubenville Pike has two screens.
Hundreds of people have posted comments to Twin Hi-Way’s Facebook page since Tuesday, sharing their fond memories of the drive-in.
Katie Goetz Kosko said: ”Twin Hi-Way was a staple in my childhood and my children's. You will be greatly missed by many. Thank you for all the amazing memories. Drive ins are the coolest; so very sad to see you go.”
“I am 50 and have been coming to the Twin Hi-Way since I was a baby. I have brought my children and my grandchildren here,” said Robin Fenk.
Patti Ray also remembered heading over to the drive-in as a child years ago.
“Loved getting pj's on and my parents taking us to Twin Hi -Way. We took our kids and our grandkids.”
In the farewell post this week, Mr. Salnoris thanked patrons and staff for their loyalty to the “family entertainment establishment.”
He encouraged others to not let the drive-in experience die, suggesting they frequent other sites, specifically The Dependable Drive-In in Moon and The Winter in Wintersville, Ohio.
The Dependable, at 549 Moon Clinton Road, shows movies on four screens and is the only drive-in theater left operating in Allegheny County.
First Published: April 6, 2016, 9:30 p.m.
