Residents of Elmhurst are dismayed by the looming demolition of local Jazz bar Terraza 7 to expand a mini mall.
On January 1, 2017 the sole hub for jazz, folk, and blues music in Queens will shut down permanently as owner Freddy Castiblanco does not plan on renewing his lease due to rising rent costs.
Distinguished by it’s artistic nature, Terraza 7 is a home away from home for many South American expats in Queens. The venue has provided a space for artists and musicians to come together and showcase their work to each other and the neighborhood.
Although it is a bar, it is also a family friendly environment where parents expose their children to the folky tunes of their heritage.
Mr. Castiblanco and residents have previously petitioned to keep the bar where it is but have met defeat and will have to vacate the premises at the close of this year. As of now he is still looking for locations to re establish the bar but rent prices are forcing him out of the neighborhood.