Robert Herrera is the Founder of The Mill and Partner at 9th Street Development Company in downtown Wilmington. Read his story as this week’s #PeopleOfWilmDE!
“I grew up in Dover/Camden, Delaware, and attended Caesar Rodney High School, where a highly influential teacher sparked my interest in architecture. I pursued this passion at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), completing a five-year architecture program before earning a master’s degree in Infrastructure Planning. Following my studies, I joined Perkins Eastman Architecture in New York City, where I worked for several years before moving on to a position with S9 Architecture.
I moved to Wilmington in 2014 after purchasing a house near downtown. I continued to work in New York City and would ride the 4:50 am Amtrak train to NYC every workday for two years.
Three fun facts about me are:
- I am weirdly obsessed with zoning and city planning.
- I am a very intense soccer dad and former soccer player.
- I at times miss being an architect.
Being in Wilmington has been pivotal to my professional and personal development. The strong community support here has been invaluable, providing a collaborative environment that has allowed me to establish and grow my own businesses with confidence. Wilmington has also fostered my personal growth by offering a balanced lifestyle that aligns with my family values, allowing me to thrive both in business and at home. The many opportunities I’ve found here have not only advanced my career but have also enriched my life, deepening my connection to the city and solidifying my commitment to contributing to its growth.
I serve on the board of the Delaware Prosperity Partnership, Delaware EARNS, DETV, and Theatre N. They have all been an absolute privilege and wonderful learning experience.
One of my proudest moments was opening The Mill in downtown Wilmington on April 1, 2016. Although it feels like a lifetime ago, I remember the City of Wilmington truly thriving that evening, with a large concert at The Queen Theatre creating an exciting, celebratory atmosphere. It felt like a warm and festive welcome for The Mill.
Opening Blitzen, a Christmas-themed bar, was nothing short of a holiday miracle. From the very first night, the excitement was palpable; there was a line stretching down the 9th Street block of Wilmington, filled with people eager to experience Wilmington’s new winter wonderland. We were truly overwhelmed by the turnout and thrilled to see such enthusiasm for the concept in its early days.
Blitzen was the result of a friend’s persuasive idea—and a leap of faith on my team’s part. After some convincing, I invested a significant amount to bring the bar to life, trusting that the unique holiday spirit would resonate with the community. Watching so many people come out to enjoy the atmosphere made the investment feel worthwhile. That first night, seeing the lights twinkle and hearing laughter spill into the street, I knew Blitzen was destined to become a special seasonal spot in Wilmington.
Wilmington continues to punch above its weight. Every day I walk around downtown I see a new restaurant opening, or a new building going up. It’s exciting to play a small role in helping transform our downtown.”
Wilmington Favorites
Favorite Wilmington attraction/event:
“I have a special place in my heart for Theatre N in Market West here in downtown Wilmington. It’s in the same building that The Mill is in, and I serve on their board. Every time I attend a movie there I always feel moved in a way. I do not get there as much as I would like to!”
Best place to catch live music:
“The Queen Theater. Although, my favorite bar to watch live music is The Nomad Bar.”
On a typical day or night off in Wilmington, where do you go for drinks, dinner, and events:
“Bardea! My wife and I have a regular date night there. We will usually grab a drink at Le Cavalier or The Quion but almost always do dinner at Bardea.”
Ideal itinerary for a night out in Wilmington:
“As a family we really enjoy shows at The Grand, and we typically do dinner at Bardea before or after that show.”
Insights and Future Vision
What are you excited about that’s going on in Wilmington right now?
“I am most excited about Wilmington’s continued growth and the unique ways in which the city is evolving. The recent news that Incyte is moving its headquarters downtown is a fantastic step forward, and I am equally enthusiastic about the potential for higher education institutions like Delaware Law, the University of Delaware, and Delaware State University to establish a presence in the heart of the city. These students will bring new energy and engagement to Wilmington’s nightlife, culture, and streetscape, making a significant impact on the city’s vibrancy and appeal.”
How would you like to see our city grow in the next year, next 5-10 years?
“Higher Education Institutions will be amazing! Keep them coming.
I would also really like to see “Riverfront East” grow considerably and have a similar impact the Riverfront has had over the last three decades.”
What advice would you like to give people living and working in Wilmington?
“Get engaged in the local community. This is a very welcoming town that is eager to welcome new residents.”
