Memphis Farmer's Market Hoping to Expand

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - The Memphis Farmers Market has secured a $100,000 grant from the state.

The money is coming from the Department of Agriculture for a construction project targeted for completion in less than a year.

On Saturday the Tennessee Department of Agriculture will give the Memphis Farmers Market the largest capital grant ever given to an open market.

"It really does establish the initial investment in the project hopefully giving us leverage to continue fund raising," said Andy Kitsinger.

The grant will go toward expanding the market's existing pavilion into the parking lot facing Front Street.

The t-shape construction will help vendors who don't currently fit under the pavilion and bring their own canopy's to cool off during the market's April to October season.

"It also creates more of a cohesive market. Makes them feel more inclusive in the market and market space," said Sharon Leicham.

The new construction will give vendors all the amenities those stationed under the pavilion now have- down to the fans and wiring.

There's also a plan to improve the experience for shoppers by increasing accessibility.

"You have step up and step downs, the project will eliminate all those and make a smooth transition," said Kitsinger.

Besides benefits for the market, planners say what's done will provide covered parking and more cover from weather for those using the bus station at central station.

"We'd like to be seen as a model market," said Leicham.

The target date for completion is spring of 2011 and won't begin until winter when the market is closed.

The state grant jump starting the expansion is a matching grant so the farmer's market has launched a capital campaign to raise the full $360,000 needed to pull the project off.

Organizers however estimate when it's all said and done the total price tag will run $375,000 with lighting and electrical included.
The grant presentation will be held Saturday morning at the Memphis Farmers Market at 10:00 am.

The market is open every Saturday from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm beginning in April through the end of October.