Antioch cannabis shop a welcome addition in downtown revitalization effort
Crime and sideshows in downtown Antioch have slowed the city's efforts to revitalize the area. But now, some new businesses are coming in, both raising some eyebrows and creating more foot traffic in the area.
Off the Charts has been in a soft opening stage since last November. Phi Bui is the store manager, and he said the response from the community about the pot shop being downtown has been overwhelmingly positive.
"They get excited," said Bui. "They walked in like, 'No way, there's one downtown.' So, they got really excited when we're opening up."
Downtown Antioch has struggled to lure thriving, new businesses and customers to the area. Buford Brown opened his popular BBQ restaurant just over a year ago and has already been targeted by thieves. He welcomes any business that would bring more customers.
"It is what it is," said Brown. "I mean it's a new thing, and it's getting a lot of traction wherever they open up at. So, it's a good thing."
Residents KPIX spoke with said, at this point, the city needs to try new ways to put downtown Antioch on the map.
"Nobody knows about this place," said Suzette and Curt. "People outside of the area have no idea Antioch even has a downtown. That's part of it. Making people aware."
"As cannabis is becoming more mainstream, it's definitely more acceptable," added Michelle Daggs. "People are more willing to try new things."
Bui said Off the Charts decided to open up shop in Antioch since it was a central east county location. He adds many of the customers are coming from out of the area.
"It brings a lot of people from different cities," he said. "People coming in are coming in from Sac, Bay Area. They're coming into town just to see us because we're making a name for ourselves slowly. Word by mouth, everyone is coming in checking us out."
Brown hopes that continues and people will come see what Antioch has to offer. He's invested in the city and has a vision for the future.
"This place needs to raise up and rise up," he said. "Because anywhere there's a delta, you can see people mingling. People shopping and people talking and having a good time."
