NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- Saved!
Neir's Tavern & Grill in Woodhaven, Queens, will not close its doors after nearly 200 years after all.
A rent hike had prompted it to announce it was closing on Sunday.
But a deal reached Friday night between the watering hole's owner and its landlord means it will stay open. Councilman Robert Holden, who represents the area, said the two parties negotiated a 5-year lease. He said Mayor Bill de Blasio and the Queens Chamber of Commerce helped.
"New York City's small businesses are what make this city so special, and as the city's oldest bar, Neir's leads the pack," de Blasio said in a statement. "I'm proud to have helped keep the doors open. Cheers to another 190 years!"
The bar opened in 1829 as the Old Blue Pump House and appeared in the movie "Goodfellas."
Owner and FDNY Lt. Loycent Gordon said the rent has nearly tripled since the 78th Street building was sold to 353 Rockaway Realty for $1.35 million in December, 2018.
Gordon, who has co-owned Neir's since 2019, told Gothamist the rent went from $1,100 per month to $5,400 per month and said the landlord is unwilling to negotiate.
Tourists and locals alike, including 1010 WINS' reporter Juliet Papa, poured into the bar on Friday to show their support for the historic Queens watering hole.
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