Long Beach Business Owner Calls for New Safety Measures After Multiple Vehicles Crash Into Store

Long Beach business owner Emily Yep is calling for new safety measures to be implemented after multiple vehicles have crashed into her antique store, Magnolia & Willow. In the past eight months, three vehicles have collided with her store, causing significant damage and putting the safety of her employees at risk.

Despite the city of Long Beach placing temporary barriers outside her store, the latest incident still resulted in damage to Yep’s business. She expressed her frustration with the lack of action from the city, emphasizing the stress and anxiety it has caused her and her family.

City employee Eric Lopez acknowledged the need for immediate improvements to ensure the safety of the store and its employees. The city has applied for a $20 million grant from the federal government to address the issue, but the funds have not yet been received.

Employees at Magnolia & Willow are also concerned for their safety, with one employee, Mariah Perez, highlighting the close calls they have experienced during the previous crashes. Video footage from a July 4 incident shows a vehicle crashing through the front of the store, further emphasizing the urgency for enhanced safety measures.

Yep is fearful that an innocent bystander could be injured if drivers continue to speed through the intersection. She emphasized the importance of creating a safe environment for both her customers and her four-year-old son.

City council members have acknowledged the inadequacy of the temporary barriers and have committed to prioritizing the safety of the intersection moving forward. As Yep continues to advocate for improved safety measures, the city is under pressure to take action to prevent further incidents at Magnolia & Willow.