Take action soon

I read the article “Downtown Crime Disturbs Cultural Trust” concerning the Downtown crime problem, and I agree with the cultural trust.

Drug overdoses, crime, homelessness and panhandling are out of control. I’ve owned a business in Downtown for 30 years — in our current location on Sixth Avenue for about 15 years. The last three years have been troubling, to say the least.

From the front of my store, we see what goes on every day on Sixth Avenue — the main thoroughfare for visitors from three hotels to get to the Cultural District, T station and sports venues. Visitors have to literally step over and walk around the homeless people and often face harassment.

I’ve emailed Mayor Bill Peduto and Pittsburgh City Council and have not received a response. Coffey Way, the alley across from my store, has become a haven for drug sales and a public “restroom.” Shoplifting has increased — even with our camera system. I fear that instore sales have been affected because some customers may not even want to walk up Sixth Avenue.

Two days this year, we had five overdoses in our block on the same day. With Narcan, many abusers are back on the sidewalks the next day. I suggest the Post- Gazette do an extensive examination of the root causes. With the loss of our major department stores and now the prevalence of drug overdoses, crime and homelessness, the vibrancy and success of the Downtown business district are in danger. Please listen to what the cultural trust is saying and act on it sooner rather than later. RICK CONLEY

Owner Oliver Flowers

Downtown