For over 50 years, Penn State businessman Art Fine has been a downtown staple with his footwear and clothing stores. Now, he is preparing to close his last remaining store for good.

Barefoot and Metro will close permanently on May 31. The women’s clothing and shoe store at 130 E. College Ave. will hold a clearance sale on remaining merchandise with increasing discounts to follow. This sale will feature popular brands such as Ugg, Birkenstock, and Steve Madden. Fine also plans to sell the store’s fixtures and furniture.

Fine has long thought about retiring and has decided this spring is the right time. The closure of Barefoot and Metro marks the end of Fine’s long-standing downtown retail history. He started his career with an Earth Shoes store, which eventually expanded to include Barefoot, Metro, AJ Fine’s Sample Sale, and People’s Nation.

Over the past 51 years, Fine has built an enduring legacy in State College. After earning an art degree from Penn State, Fine initially worked for his father’s bridal gown business until a friend introduced him to Earth Shoes. Though he didn’t see the appeal at first, once he understood, he secured a location on Calder Way and launched the State College franchise.

After marrying Nancy, they worked together to develop the businesses that became well-known and loved in Happy Valley. They operated stores that served both college students and local adults, focusing on functional pieces.

When he retires, Fine plans to travel with his wife across the country and spend quality time with their children and grandchildren. He will miss his dedicated staff and the lively spirit they brought to the workplace, as well as the customers who filled his stores.

“I’ve had a lot of fun in my career,” Fine said in an interview with StateCollege.com. “We had our ups, and we had our downs, but it’s been a great run.”

To read more about Art Fine’s story, visit StateCollege.com.