City to shut down The Artery over structural concerns
Laura Osman | CBC News | Posted: February 26, 2015 11:00 PM | Last Updated: February 27, 2015
After end of March, 83 performances will have to find new venues
One of Edmonton’s downtown music venues has been evicted by the city over concerns the building is structurally unsound, according to the owner
Philip Muz posted the news on The Artery's social media pages, saying he was blindsided by the eviction.
“We are absolutely shocked by the city's decision and abrupt notice,” he said in the statement.
The city purchased the building, which will eventually be demolished to make way for LRT construction.
City spokesperson Cheryl Oxford said inspectors found the building unfit for long term occupancy because of structural issues.
Muz said he was told previously by the landlord, property manager and the city’s real estate agent that the venue had several years of life left. Instead, they must leave by the end of March when their lease expires.
The building’s iconic red door has become a symbol for members of Edmonton’s arts and music scene. The venue, at 9535 Jasper Ave., is known for affordable music space that caters to small, up-and-coming acts.
“This building has a million stories and holds many amazing experiences dear to our hearts,” Muz wrote.
Steve Derpack, who also owns a music venue downtown called The Mercury Room, said the Artery was fully booked until the summer months.
He thinks the demise of the venue will put a strain on available performance space for smaller acts.
“83 shows have to move to other venues, so that’s going to be a challenge.”
Derpack said the closing of The Artery will be a hit to the music scene in Edmonton, which is struggling to support small acts because of the high cost of rents.
“It just kind of epitomizes, or highlights, that running a live music venue has inherent challenges,” Derpark said.
Muz said the Artery is now looking for a new space, but it will be difficult because of the short notice.
“This will be a massive challenge, as we do not have a lot of time nor money.”
All shows scheduled until March 31 will go ahead as planned. Muz wrote the other 83 shows booked after that date will have to find new venues.