Readers React to Closures in Diamond Bar

Since the beginning of the year, businesses have been coming and going from Diamond Bar.

See’s Candies just held its ribbon cutting, but Acapulco, Ralphs, Jodie’s Hallmark and Blockbuster all shut their doors for a variety of reasons, including rising rents. Many Diamond Bar residents are concerned with these recent developments, and have commented ; below are some thoughts from your neighbors.

DB Resident wrote, “Our city has no economic life or identity,” and Don agreed, replying, “I’m sick of hearing we need to shop Diamond Bar. The city needs to share with us what they are doing to draw business to Diamond Bar.”

Some readers shared what stores they would like to see established in Diamond Bar.

“How about a Sprouts or Whole Foods?” asked Adrian. “I understand Trader Joe’s is not interested. Not sure if that is true. A nice movie theater that is clean in appearance? What about a bowling establishment that does not draw crime in the parking lot?”

Kim Hsieh PsyD would like to see a “Main St. like atmosphere” in Diamond Bar, as well as revitalization, and said, “What we need to do now is focus on reviving other empty lots and locations with businesses that will accommodate the residents of Diamond Bar.” 

Several wrote that they would like to see more restaurants open, like in neighboring Chino Hills. Lydia Plunk responded, “Chino Hills and Diamond Bar are completely different by topography, layout, and access. Our success will have to be developed on a completely different model.”

Many feel as though they don’t spent as much money in town as they would like, and for some, the changes around town are enough to make them leave.

“I honestly would rather spend my money here in my own city but am forced to dine/shop elsewhere,” Gabby said. “Having said that, I still love my city but am disappointed with some of the decisions our city officials have made. Because of the changes, I have no choice but to move elsewhere when the economy picks up. Hopefully Diamond Bar will finally get a clue as to what the people in our community really want.”

This is one of Diamond Bar’s hot topics, and the issue won’t be going away anytime soon. Share your thoughts below on what you would like to see open in Diamond Bar, and what steps you think should be taken to ensure that businesses come to Diamond Bar and stay in Diamond Bar.