Statement from the URA on the Closing of Salem’s Market Centre Avenue Location

Salem’s Market has been an exceptional community champion in the Hill District.

We are extremely grateful that Salem’s, a long standing local, minority-owned business, took on the challenge and the opportunity to purchase the vacant grocery store and plaza on Centre Avenue in 2021. From the start, Abdullah Salem and his team were incredibly intentional in the way they embedded their business in the neighborhood, including their dedication to community engagement, hiring local contractors and staff, and building out the grocery store with fresh produce and quality food items that would fit the needs of Hill District residents and the Pittsburgh community.

In our partnership with Salem’s Market and the City of Pittsburgh, we’ve learned that it’s not the right time for a full-service grocery store to be supported.

We know community members are disappointed by the news of the store pausing its operations, and we share those feelings. The URA is committed to supporting Salem's during this transition as they identify next steps for the future of the Hill District location. Our team is simultaneously considering the community’s needs and will continue to work with partners to seek opportunities for inclusive economic growth in the neighborhood.

We encourage Pittsburghers to support and patronize Salem’s Market as they serve the greater Pittsburgh community in the Strip District and Oakland.

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