Hagerstown, MD – August 27, 2024: The City of Hagerstown proudly welcomes the newest addition to the community, Mart Plus, located at 301 E. Washington Street. The grand opening celebration took place on August 23, 2024, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by a distinguished group of city officials, business leaders, and community members. This milestone marks the revitalization of a key area and signals a fresh start for local commerce.
The event drew a notable crowd, including Mayor Tekesha Martinez, City Administrator Scott Nicewarner, and other key figures from the Department of Community and Economic Development, as well as representatives from the Hagerstown Police Department and Washington County Chamber of Commerce. It was a momentous occasion, as attendees gathered to celebrate the opening of a new business that promises to play a significant role in the community’s economic growth and local revitalization.
Owner Jamil Malik shared his enthusiasm for the project:
“As a local entrepreneur, when I saw this property was available, I was happy for the opportunity to be able to open a local business here and keep the operations local. It started with one Penny Mart, and now we are here.”
This journey from a small neighborhood shop to the opening of Mart Plus USA reflects Malik’s dedication to keeping business within the community and creating a positive impact in Hagerstown.
Transforming 301 E. Washington Street: From Decline to Renewal
The location, once plagued by high petty crime and loitering, had been a cause of concern for city officials and residents alike. The previous business, Sheetz, faced declining conditions before ultimately shutting down, leaving the area in need of revitalization.
City Administrator Scott Nicewarner addressed these issues, emphasizing the collaboration between the city’s leadership, law enforcement, and economic development teams to ensure a brighter future for the location:
“When that Sheetz went out, we met with them immediately. It was myself, HPD, Economic Development. We basically told them, ‘you will not allow that to happen’.”
The opening of Mart Plus marks a significant turnaround for this vital area of Hagerstown, bringing new energy, local business, and a commitment to safety and community.
A Promising Future for Hagerstown
The grand opening of Mart Plus is more than just the launch of a local business—it represents a dedication to the city’s future. With its 24/7 availability and wide range of products, from groceries and snacks to gas and deli options, Mart Plus aims to be a central hub for the residents of Hagerstown.
As the community continues to grow, the addition of Mart Plus is a key development in the ongoing efforts to create a vibrant and thriving local economy.
Stay tuned for more updates as Mart Plus becomes a cornerstone of the Hagerstown community!
