MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) – The Mankato Farmers Market has been a part of the community for more than 60 years. It has moved locations many times, and its current location is in the Best Buy and Bomgaars parking lots during the summer and winter.
However, some vendors believe the market should be moved to a new, more permanent location.
“During the peak season in July and August, parking here gets pretty tight,” said Dan Zimmerli, owner of Cedar Crate Farm.
The idea behind this move is to protect buyers and sellers from the elements while providing better transportation access for everyone.
“More and more young families are bringing their kids to the Mankato market on Saturday mornings, so they want a decent space to run around,” said Richie Schaefer, owner of B2B Honey. Ta.
One thing that can slow down the process is funding.
“The land around here is incredibly expensive and the construction costs are very high, so it’s not a low-cost project. You know, there’s going to be a lot of obstacles,” said Becky, owner of Juniper Berries. Rosseau said.
“It’s become very clear at the state level and at the federal level that local food systems are a priority. Both USDA and MDA are funding it. So there’s a lot of opportunity there. There is,” said Sabri Fair, Environment and Sustainability Planner for the Region 9 Development Board.
If this move materializes, it could take some time to materialize.
“I think it took Missouri almost 20 years to go from an idea to actually selling in the market pavilion, so hopefully we can learn some things and do it faster,” Zimmerli said. he said.
Fair doesn’t expect the project to take that long, but it will likely take at least a few years.
“If someone wants to create a space for us, we want to find a balance to make sure the vendor’s voice is heard, and the community’s voice is reflected in its design. ” Fair said.
The survey will continue through the winter market until around spring 2025. Data should then be summarized for discussion and suggestions.
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