SALISBURY -- The city of Salisbury and the entire Lower Shore this week is mourning the passing of long-time civil servant and visionary Phillip C. “Pete” Cooper, who was instrumental in the development of much of what Salisbury is today.

Cooper, who passed away on Monday at the age of 102, was a City Engineer and Director of Public Works in Salisbury from 1950 to 1978 and was instrumental in the development of many important projects including the Downtown Plaza and the Riverwalk, for example. He was remembered this week for his ability to put pencil to paper to make his dreams become reality.

“Pete Cooper was a true friend and supporter of the city,” said Salisbury Administrator John Pick. “Even long after he retired, Pete would bring in conceptual drawings for projects that he thought we should undertake. He also very generously donated over 100 trees to help beautify Eastern Shore Drive. Pete left a lasting legacy that everyone in our community can enjoy. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him.”