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7-Eleven Stores Turn to Classical Music to Deter Homeless Encampments

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the staff of the Ridgewood blog

New York NY, across the country, including in states like Texas and California, some 7-Eleven convenience stores have adopted a novel strategy to deter homeless individuals from camping out in front of their storefronts: playing loud classical and opera music.

Even the Port Authority Bus Station on 42nd street has gotten into the act ,playing classical music 24/7.

One such 7/11 store owner in Texas, Jagat Patel, explained that the primary goal is to discourage homeless individuals from lingering and harassing customers. Opinions among customers are divided, with some supporting the use of music, while others find it irritating.

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Despite multiple noise complaints, the Austin Police Department has not intervened. Patel is unsure if the current volume violates city ordinances but plans to lower it soon. He emphasized the significant impact of the homeless population on his business.

“Especially a lot of my female customers and my young customers are scared to come here because there are people constantly hanging out in the parking lot soliciting for money,” Patel said.

Since implementing this tactic, Patel has observed a noticeable difference. Other businesses in the vicinity have also noted a reduction in homeless presence. Patel mentioned he got the idea from other store owners around the country who have used the same method successfully.

“Studies have shown that classical music is annoying. Opera is annoying, and I’m assuming they are correct because it’s working,” he said.

Employees and nearby workers have also felt the positive effects. Joe Miranda, who works close to Patel’s store, shared his experience of having to carry a knife for self-defense due to frequent confrontations with homeless individuals.

“Now since they’ve had this music going on, we have less traffic down with the homeless out here,” Miranda said.

However, not everyone is pleased with the strategy. Some customers find the music “obnoxious” and have chosen to shop elsewhere. Frederick Carter, a local resident, expressed his preference for a more direct approach to addressing the issue.

“I believe, just talk to them, and ask them not to hang around, or not to live around, whatever, I think that’s the best solution,” Carter said.

The tactic of playing classical music is not limited to Texas. In Los Angeles, California, 7-Eleven owner Sukhi Sandhu began playing opera and classical music last year to deter panhandlers and loiterers. This initiative was similarly driven by a desire to ensure the safety and comfort of employees and customers amid a growing homelessness crisis.

As this trend continues, it remains to be seen how effective it will be in the long term and how communities will respond to the use of music as a deterrent.

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One thought on “7-Eleven Stores Turn to Classical Music to Deter Homeless Encampments

  1. too bad there are no policemen or laws anymore and they have to resort to these measures.

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