Former Wicomico County Recreation & Parks official Allen Swiger has been hired by the city of Salisbury to serve as Director of the city’s Arts, Business and Culture Development Department.

Known as ABCD, the newly created department will oversee signature events, drive business incentives, and work as the bridge between arts, business and culture in Salisbury. 

Swiger brings 10 years of event management and local government experience to the new post. Most recently, he was Recreation Superintendent for Worcester County Recreation and Parks. From 2015 to 2019, Swiger was the Program Director at Wicomico County Recreation and Parks, overseeing execution of Pork in the Park, the Wicomico County Fair and many other popular events.

“We are excited to welcome Allen as the first Director of the Arts, Business, and Culture Department,” said Mayor Jake Day.

“By creating this new department we have the opportunity to build off of the strong cultural and placemaking foundation we have in Salisbury and continue to make our city the premiere location to live, grow a business, visit and play,” he said.

“Allen is the right leader to launch this Department and further put Salisbury on the map as we look to grow our residential base and to continue to make our city known for our unique experiences and regional attractions,” Day said.

Some events the city is planning in 2022 are the River Races, Hops on the River and the National Folk Festival.

Since moving to the Eastern Shore 11 years ago, Swiger said he has developed a passion for event planning and creating memorable experiences in his community.

He graduated from West Virginia University with a bachelor’s in Exercise Physiology and a minor in Communications.

“I’m thrilled to join such an amazing team of inspirational people,” said Swiger. “We’re going to continue to bring unique experiences, opportunities for businesses, and a culture where art can thrive to grow the city of Salisbury.”