Community reacts to Park & Flea Market closure in downtown Salisbury

SALISBURY, Md. – “This is what I survive on,” said Saldana.

If you’ve been to the Park & Flea Market in Downtown Salisbury, you’ve probably ran into Rose Saldana. She’s been selling her handmade jewelry at the market for almost 4 years. “When you buy one, you’re the only one who has that style. That’s what most of my customers love about it,” said Saldana.

That’s why she says herself and other vendors were completely devastated when they got word of the market closing after a 21-year stretch. “Now what are we going to do? Are they going to open a new place up? What about the customers?” said Saldana.

The decision comes as several redevelopment projects are set to begin construction in downtown this fall. “The lot has been sold. They have closed on it and on July 1st the new owner will take possession of it,” said Day.

Michael Day is with the Salisbury Arts and Entertainment District. They operate the market on a volunteer basis. “For 21 years I’ve pretty much had the same volunteers the whole time. I’m a little worn out and they’re a little worn out as well. So, we just said this is a good time to do it,” said Day.

Day tells 47ABC that on most people who visit the market aren’t shoppers. “A lot of people come here just to walk around and meet people, talk to people. That’s really what its become over the years is a real gathering place for the community,” said Day.

“It’s the end of an era but it’s been fun most of the time.”

Those construction projects set to take over that lot include a new hotel and a conference center. Day says they have plans to move to a smaller location in Delmar and are looking at a space in Pocomoke.

The Flea Market’s last day of business is set for June 25th and will permanently close July 1st.