KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Even though the first phase of construction won’t be completely done until June at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market, the new and improved Bank Street location is set to open for the season on Saturday, bright and early at 7 a.m.
“We’re excited,” said Katelyn Bekken-Simpson, manager of the Kalamazoo Farmers Market during an interview with MLive. “We’re ready to be back down on Bank Street. I know that the vendors are super eager to get down and use the new market space, and I know customers are super eager for us to be back on Bank Street too.”
The more than $4 million dollar project boasts additional space capable of handling 110 to 160 vendors, with 155 of them already filled for opening day. Other improvements featured include two on-site parking lots ready to accommodate over 200 vehicles.
Overflow parking will also be available at the Nicholas Kik Pool at Upjohn Park at 1018 Walter Street. Neighborhood street parking will also be accessible for market-goers as well.
With that addition of spaces, shoppers can expect to see a lot more artists, some new vegan vendors and community businesses such as Pizza Katerina making a debut at the market. Bakewell Company is also set to return along with many local farmers specializing in everything from fresh vegetables and fruits to meats to allergen-free and gluten-free products.
Phase II plans include the construction of an events building for year-round use, which will provide a space to offer fresh food twelve months out of the year, as well as offer a space to promote culture, art, music and events to nearby residents, along with increasing programs for both youth and seniors.
The Kalamazoo Farmers Market, located at at 1204 Bank St., will operate every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. from May 7 to November 19.
The market will also be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. from June 7 through mid-October.
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