EDITORIAL: The University's newest tenant

Penn officials have been working toward the revitalization of 40th Street for some time now. But they knew that lights, fresh paint and colorful awnings could only help so much. What they really needed were a couple of stand-out establishments that could work as a magnet to attract other businesses. And so along comes film icon Robert Redford, who says he's reconceptualizing the arts cinema and might want to build one at Penn. University administrators should be commended for their foresight in snatching up the offer. Redford should be applauded for his willingness to test his venture in University City. Although Philadelphia has several existing arts cinemas, these establishments are typically packed. So, even with potentially eight screens, Redford's arts house shouldn't have trouble filling seats -- especially since it will likely present itself as sufficiently unique, with offerings such as exclusive Sundance films. The complex -- which may extend the width of the block between Walnut and Locust streets, behind the retail strip -- could also include an art gallery, a video collection, a child-care center for patrons, a bar, a cafe, a newsstand, meeting space and a jazz club. If these features come to fruition, the arts house should be a good draw for members of the University community and residents of greater Philadelphia. A jazz club particularly is something students said they want. Faculty could take advantage of the meeting space to offer lectures tied into film. And parents would surely appreciate a place where they could leave their children to be entertained while they go off to watch a film. The arts house makes perfect sense in tandem with an academic environment. It would be yet another feature making University City an attractive place to live. And it would further increase the number of people on the streets and, in turn, the safety of the 40th Street corridor. Redford conceded that he's taking a gamble with this project. Indeed, the plans are quite ambitious, with groundbreaking set for January and hopes for an opening by the millennium. But with the city, Penn, Sundance, General Cinemas and a good amount of publicity dollars behind the effort, it should see success. The Sundance cinema, along with the new Drexeline food market to be built at the corner of 40th and Walnut streets, are exactly what the area needs to give it a significant boost. And if everything comes off as planned, 40th Street will be phenomenal.