By Bianca Fortis
A plan to transform an old factory located in an industrial section of Maspeth into a cultural arts center may be hampered by the community.
The Knockdown Center, at 52-19 Flushing Ave., is a former glass factory that first opened in August 2012 as an arts and event center, according to Tyler Myers, manager of the business.
It has already hosted a few events, including art shows and installations, weddings and a “Tiki Disco.”
In May the center hosted a six-hour music festival that drew a crowd of about 700 people, according to Myers.
Last month Myers and other representatives from the center made their pitch to Community Board 5 to obtain a liquor license to serve at least 600 patrons.
Myers said a liquor license is needed for “culturally geared events” as well as art exhibitions, weddings and corporate events.
“For some of these things, it is better to have a bar that’s open for patrons and have that be part of the economic model,” he said. “This would help us be able to do that.”
But community members have expressed concern that it may be open illegally because its owners have not acquired necessary permits of operation.
Myers said they have been using temporary events permits, however, to allow the facility to operate. They have also used temporary beer and wine permits for any event at which alcohol was served, he said.
The hope is that the center will be officially up and running within the next few months, he said.
Community leaders, including state Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan (D-Ridgewood), have sent letters to the State Liquor Authority, asking it to deny the license.
“I have some questions and concerns regarding the viability of this business,” Nolan wrote.
Bordered by Flushing Avenue and 54th Street, the facility is surrounded by other factories and warehouses, but it is also right across the street from residential homes.
Bob Holden, a CB 5 member, said one of his concerns is that the facility is within an industrial business zone.
“Partying and noise could discourage manufacturing or industrial businesses from coming in,” he said. “It defeats the purpose of the IBZ. It’s out of character.”
An application for a place of assembly filed with the city Department of Buildings says the space would be used to hold up to 5,000 people.
“That is potentially hundreds or thousands of people running around,” Holden said. “What’s that going to do to the area?”
Another concern for the community is transportation, but Myers pointed out that the building is a few blocks from the L train and there are several nearby bus routes. The B57 stops in front of the facility.
“Some people assume that we just want to throw raves every night,” Myers said about some of the backlash. “But that’s not at all what we want to do.”
He said the center has received mostly positive feedback from community members who understand what the business is trying to accomplish.
“What we’re going to offer Maspeth and the district and the city at large are some pretty unique and awesome things,” he said. “We’re looking forward to getting set up and showing everybody the best time we can.”
Reach reporter Bianca Fortis by email at bfortis@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4546.
