In-N-Out Burger, near Oakland International Airport, has announced the closure of its most recent location along the Hegenberger and 98th Street corridor due to a spike in safety concerns.
The businesses claim they cannot afford to remain open given the level of crime in the area.
“The last six months have been crazy,” restaurant owner Khalil said. “The Black Bear Diner is closed, Starbucks is closed, and the Indian restaurant down the street is about to close.”
Khalil, who did not want his business to be identified due to safety concerns, said he is currently closing his business early and is considering moving to full online ordering if the situation does not improve. .
“It's a struggle,” he said. “When a customer comes to our store for the first time, the first thing we do is welcome them and ask them: “Are you a tourist? Do you have any luggage in your car? is the best.''
In-N-Out plans to close its Oakport Street store on March 24, saying in a statement that customers are constantly being victimized by armed robberies and car break-ins. The company added: “While this location remains a busy and profitable location for the company, safety must be our top priority.”
The 98th Street subway was recently permanently closed due to crime. The same owners also own the Chevron property on Hegenberger Road and are worried they may have to close another business for the same reason.
“They've been patient with us for a long time, and they don't have any more patience,” said City Councilor Trevor Reed. “They are giving us grace and they want action. They want to know when, where and how we will work with them.”
Last March, Raising Cane's closed its dining room due to safety concerns. Now, many businesses in the same shopping center have left.
Oakland Police have increased patrols and surveillance cameras in the area. According to the department, car burglaries and thefts have recently decreased by about 40%, but robberies have increased slightly.
Reed is calling for more local and state resources to address crime concerns.
“We need a solid city-wide strategy and regional strategic partners that will bring it to the table and bring everyone together to make it happen for us across the city and especially in this corridor,” Reed said. Stated.
Mayor Sheng Tao said he is working with police to strengthen local security and will work with local and provincial leaders to secure more crime-fighting resources.
“As mayor, I prioritized key gateways to Oakland, increasing police presence and leveraging technology to deter and respond to criminal activity,” Tao said in a statement. “A surge in public safety resources has reduced property crime along the Hegenberger Corridor. But more needs to be done and we are working with local and state leaders to protect the tourism gateway to Oakland.” “Auckland remains vigilant to ensure this decline.” This trend continues and more resources will be provided. ”
