Study Green-Lights Community Market

A study commissioned to explore the possibility for developing a community market on the site of the former Metrobus depot on Freshwater Road has concluded that the site has considerable potential. The next phase of the process is the completion of supplementary technical and operational assessments.
 
According to Mayor Dennis O’Keefe, City staff are currently working with the St. John’s Farmers’ Market to take the study to the next level. “We are very happy with the concept proposed in the study and we are eager to get this project moving” he said.  The concept for a community market was identified in the City’s Economic Roadmap.
 
The St. John’s Farmers’ Market will present the concept and a potential partnership model to their membership at an October meeting. “As a cooperative of vendors and consumers, a big strength of the St. John’s Farmers’ Market is in being governed by the people who use it. ” said Josh Smee, Chair of the Board of Directors. “With the market getting busier and busier every season, finding a larger space and a sustainable model to run it has been a major priority. Our members are very excited to hear the details of this proposal.”
 
Following the St. John’s Farmer’s Market meeting, the study will be posted on the City’s website, at www.stjohns.ca.
 
The Farmers’ Market currently operates from the Lion’s Club Chalet on Bonaventure Avenue. The proposed new space on Freshwater Road would expand the size of the market, improving access to the general public and opportunities for business growth and incubation.
 
“The proposed new community market could be conceived as a centre city refurbishment reflective of the directions set out in the draft Municipal Plan and would include space for teaching and community activities and gatherings as well,” said Councillor Tom Hann, Chair, Planning Committee.
 
Research shows that community markets offer significant benefits for small businesses (farm, food, crafts) and local economies. Community building is also a significant function of these markets, as well as a significant contributor to their growth and success. Cities in Canada are increasingly citing the important role of farmers’ or community markets in their economic and community development plans – for example, in creating dynamic communities and business development opportunities.
 
Media Contacts:
Susan Bonnell                                                                                    
Manager, Marketing and Communications                                        
City of St. John's                                                                               
Phone: 709-576-3906                                                                         
Cell: 709-690-9285                                                                            
Email: sbonnell@stjohns.ca

Joshua Smee
Chair, Board of Directors
St. John’s Farmers’ Market
Cell: 709-763-5216
Email: josh.smee@gmail.com