Bar in Bloomfield closes abruptly

One day after hosting live afternoon and evening music for a New Year’s Day levee, a bar in Bloomfield abruptly closed Wednesday.

The owner of Route 145 Bar and Grill, Dwayne Costain, posted a short notice on social media on Wednesday evening advising patrons of his decision.

“Hey Folks, it’s with a heavy heart that I’m announcing that the Rte is closed. Sometimes you just know what is more important in life. We enjoyed seeing you all over the last three years. We appreciated your support. You all rock! Thank you,” he posted. The brief announcement was met with shock by many commenters who shared how much they enjoyed the establishment. “Awww so sorry to hear this,” wrote Brenda Lee Donahue, who indicated she will miss the place. “We always had a great time with friends and family on wing night.”

“This is sad,” wrote local musician Jamie Matthews. “Such a great place for live music up west and great food. Coolest bar in P.E.I.”

On Thursday morning, Costain was at the popular bar refunding patrons for gift certificates they purchased or received as gifts. A draft beer supplier was there retrieving kegs. A Route 145 Bar and Grill remark in the comment thread indicated that “Last night put the last nail in the coffin.”

West Prince RCMP were called to a disturbance at the bar around 10:45 p.m. New Year’s night. Corporal Lisa Jones said an investigation into that matter is ongoing and no charges have been laid. She said the RCMP did not issue any order that would cause the bar to close. When visited by the Journal Pioneer Thursday, Costain offered no comment when asked about the sudden decision.

A sheet of paper, with “Closed,” written in ink, was taped to the entrance door.

The bar is located in Bloomfield Mall. The mall’s owner, Blair Horne was on a flight and unavailable for comment. Several commenters sympathized with the owners for having to come to the decision to close and extended best wishes to them.