Toys R Us store to close in Calexico

The announcement by Toys R Us this week that it’s closing stores nationwide is affecting local people.

Calexico Economic Commissioner Ben Horton said, “I’m sad because of the employees are losing their jobs. Also, I’m very sad because I have personal memories when I worked there, nothing gave me more pleasure, more happiness than to see the young people run through the toys r us, look for those items they wanted to have .”

Calexico Mayor Maritza Hurtado said, “When my children were small I visited that store quite a bit and entertained my kids there.”

Calexico Economic Director Miguel Figueroa said if the store closes, it will impact the area.

“An iconic store in our city where our neighbors from south of the border and people here in the valley relied upon.” Figueroa said.

He said closure might come soon.

“We know it’s coming. We don’t know the exact date yet. Some weeks or even months before the official closing happens. That hurts the whole valley. It doesn’t only hurt Calexico,” Figueroa said.

City Council Member Bill Hodge said all city officials are rolling up their sleeves and working to find options.

“I’m upset about it, but I’m optimistic. We’re going to hustle. We’re going to plan and we’re going to substitute. As one business goes out, we’re going to bring new businesses in.” Hodge said.

“With a new port of entry will bring shorter lines, will bring much more highlighted technology for them, and hopefully a better opportunity for more business,” Hurtado said.

“We’ve got no time to wait at this moment. We need to move very fast,” Figueroa said.

They said they’re already looking at another business to take over the store’s property which they call an ideal location.