We’re following up on the reporting we’ve done about Friends’ concern over the portions of the Evanston Thrives action plan that involved the Downtown Evanston Farmers Market.
A good outcome was expected and that is exactly the result of the meeting between Friends of Evanston Farmers Market and Evanston city officials.
By the time of the April 19 meeting, Luke Stowe, City Manager, had already announced that the market would remain in downtown Evanston in the lot adjacent to the Maple Street Parking Garage.
Concerns mounted after the Evanston Roundtable published a report, Evanston Thrives, recommending the market be moved to Fountain Square.
Mayor Biss emphasized that the economic study was focused on how to improve the economic health of Evanston. He did not expect the study to do a thorough investigation of the current market and what it needs to remain a well-recognized and successful market for vendors and shoppers alike.
He, Luke Stowe and Audrey Thompson, Director of Parks and Recreation stated the city would never consider moving the market without a thorough investigative process involving all stakeholders.
The hour-long meeting ended with the city and FEFM pledging to work together to support our wonderful community asset, the Downtown Evanston Farmers Market.
The 48th season of our farmers market begins on Saturday, May 6.
