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UPDATE: Grocery and Cafe Coming to Downtown Wilkes-Barre

WILKES-BARRE — Wilkes-Barre city leaders confirm City Market and Cafe is moving into space left empty by a Wilkes-Barre art gallery that is closing its do...

WILKES-BARRE -- Wilkes-Barre city leaders confirm City Market and Cafe is moving into space left empty by a Wilkes-Barre art gallery that is closing its doors.

Last week, we reported that Arts Seen Gallery has been on Public Square for five years, but now it's moving out to make space for a mini grocery story.

Tuesday, Wilkes-Barre officials said a lease was signed Monday for City Market and Cafe to take that spot.  City Market and Cafe already has a location in downtown Scranton.

It means a change for those who run Arts Seen Gallery.

"This has been a place not only for the public to view art, but for the artists to exhibit here," said artist Bob Heim.

The Arts Seen Gallery opened up on Public Square in Wilkes-Barre more than five years ago, but its doors will close next month to make room for a mini grocery store.

"We've known from day one that if there'd be another business that wanted this space, we would be out," Heim said.

About 30 to 40 artists display their work in this store, but it's not clear how many of them will move to the store's new location in Scranton.

"I don't think. I think I'll do something else."

"Wish it was staying, yeah. I was shocked they were going to move to Scranton or some place."

Folks in Wilkes-Barre say they enjoyed walking past the store, just to peek through its windows.

"It's nice to have it here. It's a shame they're going to be moving, because it is, like I said, it is good for the public. But, you know, times change," said Terry McAvoy.

"We're just grateful for the time we've had here," said Heim.

The gallery will stay open until the end of the Fine Arts Fiesta in May.

It's new location will be on Lackawanna Avenue in downtown Scranton. The folks at Art Seen are asking for donations to help with moving costs.

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