Leaders Hope Bayard Pharmacy Part Of Downtown Revitalization - WMDT 47 News - Delmarva's Choice

DOVER, Del. - Erik and Jenny Mabus' dream of owning a pharmaceutical shop is now a reality.

"I just feel very strongly about pharmacy being a very key part of the community," said Erik Mabus.

In planning since December 2011, Bayard Pharmacy opens its doors to customers in downtown Dover.

"We thought we could bring something kind of a cornerstone business that works draw people in hopefully help other entrepreneurs say, 'hey, now there's another reason to be downtown," said Mabus.

"We love the businesses throughout the state, but the ones that are downtown: this is what makes a community alive," said Gov. Jack Markell (D).

According to officials, the new store is a part of a year-long revitalization plan including three additional businesses: 33 West Ale House and Grill, Frankfurt Bakery and Acorn Books.

"That's going to bring another 60 jobs into the downtown area, 50 [daily] retail visits," said Bill Neaton, Dover Economic Development director.

"Dover needs more community- type places to come to," said Alan Levin, Delaware Economic Development Office. "You need more restaurants. You need more abilities to shop. You need more of that in Dover that's what becomes the magnet."

Also, 48 affordable housing units are opening up and already, 36 of them are filled up and currently moving people in.