The Gallery Building
Salisbury, MD
For nearly a century Salisbury’s Downtown Plaza was anchored by F. W. Woolworth Company, the nation’s largest retailer. Retail competition increased through the mid-20th century and eventually led to the decline of Woolworth’s, resulting in the business vacating the building. After sitting vacant for many years, the idea of redevelopment was introduced when the Internal Revenue Service announced they needed a new location.
After several previous redevelopment successes, 208-212 West Main Street was purchased in 1992. Over the course of two years Gillis Gilkerson developers planned, approved and completely remodeled over sixty thousand square feet of retail, office and residential space. The historic building was updated to include modern and safety amenities such as a fire suppression system, glass elevator, individual gas & electrical meters; while also maintaining its historic value by utilizing such accents as the original tin ceiling.
The Gallery Building became home to the Regional Art Institute and Gallery, Federal and Local government agencies, local politician’s offices, attorneys, non-profits, apartments, and retail. In August 2015, Palmer Gillis and Tony Gilkerson donated the 85-year-old structure to Salisbury University, spreading the institution’s presence in the trendy downtown business and retail district.
Located within the Historic District, the Arts & Entertainment District, and the Enterprise Zone, The Gallery Building offers a unique experience to all its tenants by providing modern building amenities within walking distance to several restaurants/bars, professional offices, the County Library, the Court System, Peninsula Regional Medical Center, the Riverwalk and the City Park.