CBGB’s Reaches Deal To Stay On The Bowery For Another Year

Legendary punk rock club CBGB, under threat of eviction from its longtime home on the Bowery, reached an agreement with its landlord Wednesday to remain open for another year in its current location.

The club’s lease expired on September 1, and its landlord, the non-profit homeless organization Bowery Residents Committee, had said it would not be renewed. The BRC says it made the decision after a protracted rent battle with the club.

According to the BRC, CBGB’s owes hundreds of thousands of dollars in back rent and another $90,000 in late fees. However, a judge sided with CBGB in August, stating the landlord couldn’t evict while the lease was in effect.

BRC handed CBGB’s an eviction notice in September, but the club’s owners vowed to fight it in court.

The one-year extension agreement, which was hammered out with the help of Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s office, means CBGB’s can stay open at its current location until the end of October 2006.

CBGB’s owner Hilly Kristal says the agreement allows him more time to find a new home for the club, adding that he is looking for a suitable location in New York. However, Kristal has not ruled out moving CBGB’s to Las Vegas.

The city said in a statement it would continue to work with CBGB “so that at the conclusion of the year-long agreement announced today, CBGB might identify a dynamic new venue in this city that is fitting of its rich history.�

The 33-year-old club has been a staple in the Bowery since 1972, and helped launch the careers of many bands, including the Ramones, Talking Heads and Blondie.

ny1.com