Impact of DGX Closure at Sibley Square in Rochester on Residents

Dollar General made an announcement during its fourth-quarter earnings report, stating plans to shut down approximately 100 stores in the first quarter of 2025. Among the locations affected is the DGX branch at the Sibley Building in downtown Rochester.

Community members and employees shared their concerns about the closure. Amonti Stenson, an employee at DGX, described the store as a community gathering place rather than just a regular store, emphasizing the familial atmosphere the store provided. Similarly, Tahj Simpson, another DGX employee, expressed how the store closure would impact many individuals since it served as a hub for the community.

Residents in the area, especially older individuals residing in buildings like the Sibley Building or 55-and-older housing, are worried about the closure’s repercussions. Thomas Snedden, a frequent patron of the store, raised issues concerning the lack of affordable shopping options in the vicinity. Many seniors in the area relied on DGX for their monthly shopping needs due to convenience and accessibility.

Zanetta Greene, a Sibley Building resident, highlighted the challenges older residents with mobility issues would face in accessing groceries without DGX. She underscored the importance of having a nearby store for seniors, making their daily routines more manageable. Most residents recognize the necessity of a store like DGX but acknowledge the need for improvements in various aspects of the store’s operations.

Some residents mentioned existing problems within DGX, such as inconsistent staffing, theft occurrences, and cleanliness issues. Richelle Dickerson, a Sibley Building resident and first chair of the Resident Council, revealed the challenges faced by the store in managing stock, operational hours, and cleanliness standards. Despite the store’s shortcomings, residents see the closure as an opportunity for redevelopment and enhancements to serve the community better.

As the anticipated closure date approaches in April, community members express hope for a beneficial replacement at the vacant space. Suggestions for the new establishment include a pharmacy, clothing store, small grocery store, or a similar concept to DGX. Simpson expressed a desire for the location to be revitalized or replaced with a store that accommodates the older demographic in the downtown area.

In conclusion, the impending closure of DGX at Sibley Square will undoubtedly impact the local community, particularly older residents and those with limited mobility. While acknowledging the store’s deficiencies, residents look forward to a new and improved establishment that caters to the diverse needs of the downtown population. The closure serves as an opportunity for revitalization and better service provision in the area, ensuring residents’ continued access to essential goods and services.