In a significant development, Safeway has announced the impending closure of its store located at 1335 Webster Street in San Francisco’s Fillmore District. This decision, set to take effect on February 7, 2025, comes after 40 years of operation and is primarily attributed to persistent theft and escalating safety concerns affecting both employees and customers.
The Fillmore District Safeway has grappled with numerous security challenges over the years. Incidents such as car break-ins, assaults, and illegal dumping have been reported in the vicinity, contributing to an environment of unease for shoppers and staff alike.
In response to these issues, the store previously removed self-checkout stations in an effort to mitigate theft. Despite these measures, the challenges persisted, leading to the difficult decision to close the store.
The closure of this Safeway store has elicited a strong response from the local community, particularly among residents of the Western Addition and Fillmore District. Many community members, including seniors and low-income individuals, have expressed concerns about the loss of a vital resource for affordable groceries and essential services. The store’s closure is seen as a significant blow to a neighborhood that has historically faced economic challenges and displacement.
Local officials have also voiced their concerns. San Francisco Supervisor Dean Preston described the decision to close the store without a replacement as “cruel,” emphasizing the essential role the store plays in the community.
Mayor London Breed acknowledged the community’s concerns and highlighted the city’s commitment to addressing public safety issues in the area.
In response to the planned closure, city officials and community leaders have engaged in discussions with Safeway to explore options for maintaining grocery services in the area. These efforts aim to prevent the creation of a food desert and to ensure that residents continue to have access to essential goods and services. The possibility of including a grocery store in any future development at the site is being considered.
The property at Webster Plaza has been sold to Align Real Estate, which plans to pursue a mixed-use development project that includes housing and commercial retail space. While this development presents an opportunity to address San Francisco’s housing shortage, it also raises questions about the future availability of grocery services in the Fillmore District. Community leaders are advocating for the inclusion of a grocery store in the new development to serve the needs of local residents.
The closure of the Safeway store in San Francisco’s Fillmore District underscores the complex interplay between retail operations, community needs, and public safety concerns. As the city and developers move forward with plans for the site’s redevelopment, it is crucial to prioritize the needs of the community, ensuring that essential services remain accessible to all residents. Ongoing dialogue between stakeholders will be key to achieving a balanced and equitable outcome for the Fillmore District.
