Wall Street Nightclub Closing Doors

After 28 years in business, Wall Street Nightclub will be closing its doors at the end of the year. Co-owner Amber Myers took to social media late Sunday night to announce the news.

“Financial stress from declining business and deteriorating building conditions were compounded by the loss of parking with condo development in the neighborhood and the loss of third party production companies,” said Myers. The parking lot in reference is across Long Street, which is slated to be torn up soon for a new mixed-use apartment and retail development from The Edwards Companies.

Myers noted in her release that the club is the longest running LGTBQA nightclub in the  United States, having continuously been in operation since opening in 1987. Myers, along with co-owner Sandy Rollins, purchased the business from its previous owners in November 2014.

All shows scheduled through the end of 2015 will continue as planned.

“We hope we can go out strong and have one last great month in this historic club,” said Myers.

The gradual decline of LGTBQA bars and clubs has been well documented all across the US. Some journalists have pointed to the gentrification of formerly gay-centric neighborhoods as the culprit, while others claim that dating apps have suppressed the need for meeting new people IRL. Even local publication Outlook Ohio Magazine was asking back in 2013 if there was still a need for gay bars due to the mainstream acceptance of gay culture across all types of nightlife entertainment.

“I think there is still a need for LGTBQ specific spaces that are safe and accepting,” said Myers. “More LGTBQ people are living openly and are able to go out among straight people without the fear that existed when Wall Street opened in 1987, but the LGTBQ community still has uniqueness that wants space dedicated and focused on LGTBQ interests and entertainment.”

There’s currently no word on what may be next in store for the space at 144 North Wall Street. Myers said that the business is for sale.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/WallStNightclub/.