From Boston to Los Angeles, “mixed use” development, combining residential and commercial properties, is on the rise. The benefits that have been cited for colocating housing and retail establishments include reduced travel distances, more-pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, and stronger local character. Recent research suggests another important potential benefit: Retail establishments may play an important role in crime prevention.
Research: When a Retail Store Closes, Crime Increases Around It
Recent research suggests another important potential benefit: retail establishments may play an important role in crime prevention. In our research, we examined the effect of temporarily shuttering two types of retail businesses on crime: medical marijuana dispensaries (MMD) and restaurants. When we examined crime patterns around these closures, we found essentially the same pattern. The area immediately around a closed restaurant experienced an increase in property crime and theft from vehicles relative to areas around restaurants that were either recently reopened or about to be closed. Furthermore, this increase in crime disappeared as soon as the restaurant reopened. A quick back of the envelope cost calculation using our results along with crime costs from a 2010 study suggests that an open retail business provides over $30,000 a year in social benefit just in terms of larcenies prevented – something to keep in mind next time you are deciding how much to tip at your favorite local restaurant, coffee shop, or bakery.