DOB finds Knockdown Center's plans objectionable

From The Forum:

The city Department of Buildings last week rejected an application for a permanent place of assembly, as well as its alteration permit and change in certificate of occupancy, submitted by the Knockdown Center, a Maspeth art center that has drawn criticism from area residents who worry it will draw thousands of drunken patrons to the area but which center representatives say will respect the neighborhood and create jobs.

The center, which set up shop in an abandoned glass factory at 52-19 Flushing Ave. in Maspeth, has for the past year been hosting such events as art shows and concerts by applying for temporary permits – but in order to continue operating it must receive a place of assembly permit and a certificate of occupancy from the city. The Knockdown Center filed in August for a place of assembly and in October for a certificate of occupancy and a permit to conduct alteration work at the site – all of which was rejected last week.

The place of assembly application had requested that up to 5,000 people be allowed at the spot – something that raised eyebrows for area civic leaders and legislators, who have said they are concerned thousands of people would end up partying in a residential area.