Rent increases in Brightleaf Square are driving Durham businesses away

The pandemic isn’t the only factor driving these businesses away. Over the years, the shopping and restaurant strip has transformed in so many different ways. The view today, however, is like nothing locals have seen before.

Businesses are leaving left and right because the price for them to stay is going up. Construction blocks and tape are in front of businesses. The walkways remain clear. The once-bustling Brightleaf Square has taken a turn.

“This is where basically my future began," Andres Onate explained. He and his family have called El Rodeo’s Mexican restaurant home since he was 13 years old. His dad has owned the spot for three decades.

“I told my dad I wanted to work. This was my first job, summer job, working every single summer," Onate said. "Learned how to wash dishes, cook a little bit." he laughed, recollecting his favorite memories.

Now, after 32 years, they have to say goodbye. Not only has the pandemic caused less foot traffic in the area, but he said the new Brightleaf owners are asking for more money with their upcoming lease renewal.

“They said they will work with us, but the first offer was just an extension for six months with a 3% increase," Onate explained. "And once I heard increase, I’m like anything else that we pay… ugh. Everything is coming out of our pockets right now," he added.

Already struggling to keep the lights on and employees paid, they couldn’t hold on any longer.

And they’re not the only ones. Morgan Imports, Parker and Otis and most recently Mount Fuji have said so long to Brightleaf Square, as well.

“It’s really sad that they had to close and there’s nothing they could really do. It’s just sad that everyone’s out of employment," said a frequent Brightleaf Square patron.

"It’s not the way we wanted to go. We wanted to continue, but we’re trying just to stay positive," Onate said.

The business is not giving up just yet. They’re currently trying to find a new location in Durham. Their last day in Brightleaf Square is March 28.

The other locations on North Duke Street and Westgate Drive will remain open.

WRAL reached out to the Charolette-based Asana Partners company which owns The Brightleaf Square property. WRAL is still waiting for a response.