DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) — Two more businesses in downtown Durham are leaving. Cuban restaurant Copa and 321 Coffee are closing their doors. The news was shocking to community members like Hailey Carpenter.
“The rent prices in Durham are astronomical and something needs to be done about it, especially from a government side of things,” said Carpenter.
The owners of 321 Coffee told ABC11 that they chose not to renew their lease.
In April, ABC11 spoke to the owner of Copa after the restaurant had gotten a new lease on life after posting online appeals for support. It was on the verge of shutting its doors, but the community came to the rescue.
One business owner said businesses have safety concerns about panhandlers and that they believe the cost of parking downtown per hour is the highest in the state.
“It’s harder for us to park. Harder for customers to park. Harder for employees to park,” said Becky Cascio, owner of Pie Pushers. “The …