In 2007, developers such as Preservation Initiatives, The Commonwealth Group and The Buccini/Pollin Group as well as existing businesses in the lower end of Market Street and the Wilmington Renaissance Corporation (WRC) all came together to create a concept for the area.

Since many of the businesses in the area formerly known as Ships Tavern District already had creative roots, it seemed like an organic progression to try to create a large creative community in the area.

Thus LOMA (for Lower market) was born. The idea is to connect creativity to commerce and actively recruit creative retail and individuals to live and work in the area.

The boundaries of the district are from Martin Luther King Boulevard to 6th Street.

The first group to move to LoMa to be a part of the creative design district was The Archer Group and they continue to play an integral role in the process.

The LOMA group holds information sessions with an audience of targeted prospects and showcased the area as well as shared the idea of LOMA.

LOMA was founded with a passionate pursuit of the following characteristics which we feel are critical to creating a vibrant, creative community in downtown Wilmington from 2nd Street to 6th Street.

Creativity
District becomes a magnet for our region's "Creative Class" of professionals.

Commerce
Density of quality design specialists brings cache to the LOMA address;

Culture
Street activity bustles day and night with outdoor dining and conversation;

Community
All are welcome; diversity of self-expression and of ideas is encouraged; spirit of citizenship prevails.

In the spring, LOMA will welcome the eatery The Rebel and Greener Cleaner Plus, environmentally friendly dry cleaners. Also, Al's Sporting Goods will move into its new home on the street level of the Ships Tavern Garage.

Check back for details about the next LoMa gathering.