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The four screens at Tucson's De Anza Drive-In are safe from wrecking crews for now.

A developer has dropped plans to purchase the property at 1401 S. Alvernon Way and turn it into a retail center.

Previously, Evergreen Development Co. hoped to turn the theater into a 20-acre "power center" called De Anza Crossings, according to project marketing materials.

Gregg Alpert, Evergreen managing principal, said the development company could not reach "terms that were acceptable" with the theater's owner, Los Angeles-based De Anza Land and Leisure Corp.

Alpert said he had no deals with future tenants, but "there was definitely interest in the site."

He said he may try to acquire the property in the future when retailers feel more open to expanding.

"Our business is not an easy business, and these are challenging economic times," he said.

In response to news of Evergreen's plan to buy the property, some Tucson residents formed a campaign to try to save the theater, which is Tucson's last drive-in.

Stacy Paisley Peckham, a real estate agent who launched Saveourdeanza.org, said she has been in contact with the theater's owners and has discussed ways to make the theater more profitable.

Peckham said the owners told her Monday that the deal was on and mentioned the possibility of making the theater site into a "family fun center," perhaps featuring some of the popular giant creatures from the now-closed Magic Carpet Golf, 6125 E. Speedway.

"I was thrilled," Peckham said.

Alpert was also impressed by the outpouring of support for the theater.

He said that if Evergreen makes another play for the property, he wants to "work with the community," and might consider relocating the theater.

Teri Oldknow, senior vice president of the De Anza Land and Leisure Corp., said it's too soon to determine what will happen with the theater, although for now "the drive-in is here to stay."