Nike closes store after mayor denies extra security.
Nike Permanently Closes Store in Northeast Portland Following Safety Concerns
Nike, the renowned American footwear and apparel giant, has made the difficult decision to permanently close its store in Northeast Portland, Oregon. This comes after several years of criminality and safety concerns that have made it impossible for the store to continue operating. The closure was confirmed by OregonLive.
The store had already been closed to the public for most of 2023, but it was uncertain whether it would be a permanent closure. However, according to OregonLive, Nike has now made the decision to shut down the location for good.
This move by Nike follows Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler’s rejection of a request to provide off-duty police officers to protect the store from the increasing criminal activity in the city. Portland has been grappling with a surge in drugs and crime in recent years, with shootings, homicides, robberies, and vehicle thefts reaching alarming levels. The City Journal and KGW have reported a significant rise in drug overdose deaths and requests for graffiti removal.
Impact on the Community
The closure of the Nike store has had a negative impact on the small businesses in the area. John Washington, executive director of the Soul Business District Association, expressed concern about the declining foot traffic and the adverse effects on local businesses. He emphasized the importance of considering the long-term consequences of the closure, especially since the store has been a vital economic driver in the area for over four decades.
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler expressed disappointment over Nike’s decision to abandon reopening the location. He stated that his team had worked closely with the company in an attempt to address their safety and security concerns. However, due to a shortage of law enforcement personnel, Wheeler had to decline the request for off-duty officers.
It is worth noting that Portland had previously reduced funding for its police force during the George Floyd riots in 2020 but later increased funding in response to rising crime rates and a significant exodus of officers, as reported by PBS.
Next Steps for Nike
Nike has announced that it will collaborate with local community organizations and leaders to determine the best new location for its store. The company is also offering options to its employees to remain part of the Nike family.
As of now, neither Nike nor Wheeler’s office has provided any further comments on the matter.
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