WICOMICO COUNTY, MD
The Wicomico Youth and Civic Center is set to undergo significant renovations, receiving a $9.8 million investment aimed at enhancing its exterior, with work scheduled to start in January.
According to Steve Miller, the Director of Recreation, Parks and Tourism for Wicomico County, this is the most substantial upgrade since the center was destroyed by fire 40 years ago.
“We’re providing a fresh look for the building’s exterior. Over the past five years, we’ve focused a lot on the interior, and now it’s time to enhance the outside,” noted Miller.
Planned upgrades include an expanded box office and lobby area, a food court, and added security barriers on the north and west sides of the building.
“The main factor driving this initiative is safety and security. We understand that our community gathers here for various events like graduations and concerts, and we want to implement physical barriers to prevent incidents similar to those seen in New Orleans,” Miller explained.
A federal grant of $5.5 million is contributing to the funding for the venue improvements, with the remaining $4.3 million coming from state and local resources.
“Residents should take pride in this investment. This venue serves as a central gathering place for the county, where we hold elections and numerous events. Enhancing it to be more attractive and modern benefits everyone,” stated Miller.
David Ryan, the Executive Director of Salisbury Wicomico Economic Development, emphasized that these upgrades will boost the venue’s competitiveness.
“These improvements help align us with other communities vying for tourism and visitors. Tourism generates around $70 million in economic impact, a significant portion of which takes place within this facility,” noted Ryan.
The venue will remain open throughout the renovation process. Miller mentioned that based on the project’s progress, access to the building might be affected at times.
The renovations are projected to take approximately one year to finish.
