Citizens Bank Building to Become Hotel and Restaurant in Continental Square

A Historic Transformation Begins

John Gilliland, founder and CEO of the Investment Real Estate Group of Companies, along with his wife Denise, has recently finalized the purchase of a historic building located at 1 N. George St. on Continental Square. This property, previously known as the Citizens Bank building, is set to undergo a significant transformation into a boutique hotel and upscale restaurant.

The three-story, 25,000-square-foot structure boasts Beaux-Arts architecture, drawing inspiration from classical Greek and Roman designs. Built in 1929, the building features ornate carved stone, tall arched windows, a highly detailed roofline, and 40-foot barrel-vaulted ceilings. These elements make it an ideal setting for an upscale restaurant and bar.

John and Denise Gilliland, both passionate about travel and fine dining, aim to create a space that offers a unique experience. They envision a venue complete with white tablecloths and a live pianist during service. "We think there is room for a higher end, special occasion restaurant," John said. The couple sees potential in the downtown York area, where the Citizens Bank building can once again become a destination point for residents and visitors alike.

A Commitment to Revitalization

"Located in the heart of downtown York, the Citizens Bank building is a historic landmark that deserves to shine once again as a destination point for residents and guests," John stated in a release. He and Denise are dedicated to contributing to the city’s revitalization efforts. They are eager to open the doors of this beautiful building to their community.

According to the release, the Gillilands will collaborate with a hotel management group to design a 20-room boutique hotel featuring standard rooms and suites. The front of the building will house an upscale restaurant. Denise Gilliland, a third-generation member of the DelGrosso family, brings a rich legacy in the food industry dating back to 1914.

Despite the presence of the Yorktowne Hotel nearby, John noted that it maintains high occupancy, creating ample opportunity for another hotel downtown. "We look forward to working with talented individuals in the hospitality and restaurant industries to ensure excellence in every aspect," Denise said in the release. She emphasized that the building is a gem in downtown York and they are excited to bring it back to life by transforming it into something truly special.

A History of Redevelopment Proposals

Over the years, various proposals have emerged to redevelop the property. Most recently, in 2023, developers planned to convert the building into a "mixed-use space" that would include a French-style bistro, a 1920s-style restaurant called The Heist, and a pizza place. However, these plans did not come to fruition.

The project is being planned by Warehaus, a local award-winning firm of architects based in downtown York. According to John, the planning process could take up to six months, with the project taking up to two years to complete. The hotel will be the first phase, followed by the restaurant once an operator is secured. "Renovation costs are well worth in the millions, and we're up to the task," he said.

Expanding Their Vision

This purchase marks the latest in a series of older properties the couple plans to revitalize. They have also acquired York’s former 19th-century post office building on the corner of West Philadelphia and Beaver streets near York Central Market.

Founded in 1998, the Investment Real Estate Group of Companies (IREGC) operates more than 90 facilities under the Moove In Self Storage brand across the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and Midwest regions. The Gillilands' commitment to real estate development continues to expand, reflecting their vision for the future of downtown York.