Farmer's Market

2011 Farmers Market

As I set by the riverside on this cool fall afternoon, I am pondering the Decatur Farmer’s Market.  The move to Riverside Center has prompted some discussion, so let’s make sure we have the facts.

Let me begin with a bit of history 2008 the Chamber was approached to help organize a Farmer’s Market.  Since our mission is to “advance the economic and civic interests of Decatur” we agreed.    That Market was on Saturday mornings in the parking lot behind the Chamber. Suffice it to say, this effort was not successful.

In 2009 a larger partnership was formed to operate the Market.  This partnership included the Chamber, the Decatur Small Business Association, Purdue Extension, Decatur Parks and Recreation and Tri Kappa.  The Market was relocated to the Courthouse and the day was changed to Thursday.  The committee worked hard to make the Market a success. 

In 2010, because of construction at the Courthouse, the Market moved one block east on Madison Street.  This location was not ideal, but it worked.  The Market was again successful.  Many of the problems were the same as at the Courthouse.

The mission of the market was to bring producers and customers together to benefit both by providing a source for fresh produce.  While it was a positive byproduct, bringing people downtown was never a part of the mission.

After much discussion the committee decided to move the 2011 Market to Riverside Center. This solved most of the logistics problems.  

There were several reasons for the move.

• Staffing - this is a volunteer group.  Having the Market downtown requires a huge time commitment from volunteers.  Few volunteers came forward and some quit after a short time.
• Traffic and safety concerns – there have been several near accidents and there were several complaints about the disruption of traffic downtown.
• Early set-up by vendors was an issue because of the needs to close streets.
• Parking was limited.
• Restrooms were distant.

While the Riverside lacks what someone described as the “Mayberry” feeling, the location has worked well. The area is safe. Parking is ample. Restrooms are close. Based on these factors the Farmer’s Market Committee has decided to continue the Market at Riverside Center for 2012.