Bar near DU agrees to close forever after liquor violations

A nightclub near the University of Denver has agreed to close its doors for good after the Denver Police Department’s vice team found it open after closing time.

The Gravel Pit, at 2014 S. University Blvd., reached a settlement with city officials that was formally approved by Denver’s Department of Excise and Licenses on Dec. 8.

Under the settlement, the club admitted it stayed open too late one night in August and provided alcohol to a minor one time in September. It surrendered its liquor licenses.

“I created this space for the community of Denver, to bring music and art back to the people after COVID,” Gravel Pit owner Kofi Ansong told BusinessDen. “I am proud of what I and the staff accomplished. Our space promoted local musicians and artists.

“Unfortunately, Denver’s liquor laws are outdated and antiquated for this growing city,” Ansong added. “It’s sad to see the city doesn’t care about small businesses anymore. Just look at all the small businesses that have been shut down. Perhaps the city will stop targeting small businesses when city budget cuts arise because of a loss of tax revenue.”

The businessman said he hopes a liquor advisory group established by Gov. Jared Polis this year will result in “common-sense laws that don’t shut down small businesses.”

Ansong told BusinessDen in September that the city was trying to shut down the Gravel Pit due to a series of shootings in the area that it falsely believed stemmed from his club.

“They were concerned because a rich neighborhood had some gunfire,” Ansong said then. He later added, “They’re trying to get me out of there. It is what it is.”