The Ithaca Journal is reporting that funds have been secured for the new Parking lot project.
The Ithaca Farmers Market has grown a lot since 1973 when it was just local farmers selling veggies from their trucks.
At the second farmers market this year at Steamboat Landing in Ithaca, Senator Lea Webb said they’re giving $125,000 to Friends of Ithaca Farmers Market. This money will help update the market so it stays nice for many years.
Senator Webb said, “The Ithaca Farmers Market is a place where locals can support small businesses, enjoy art and culture, and help our region’s economy. They also help with food problems in our area.”
The market celebrated its 50th birthday in 2023. They made a cookbook and a guide to the market, written by Michael Turback and Izzy Lecek. It’ll be out this spring.
Monika Roth, who leads the Friends of Ithaca Farmers Market, said, “Last year, we celebrated 50 years, hoping for 50 more. Now, we need to fix up the place.” First, they’ll improve parking, which will take about four to six months. They hope to start this summer.
Senator Webb’s office says the money will also make the market easier for people with disabilities to visit. Roth said, “We’ll keep running the market while they work. We’ll make sure at least half the parking stays open during construction. We’ll also fix up the waterfront and the pavilion we all love. The pavilion keeps us dry on rainy days.”
Roth also said, “The market has been at Steamboat Landing for 35 years. The pavilion, parking lot, and waterfront are old and need fixing. It’ll take a few years, but this money is a good start.”