Project Description

Farmers’ Market Expansion

Location: Kalamazoo, MI

Site Area:  6.5 Acres

The first phase of the Renovation to the Kalamazoo Farmers Market was substantially completed by opening day in the Spring of 2022. The extensive site development rejuvenated the long-time home of the market by expanding parking, re-routing Bank Street for better traffic circulation, and incorporating a connective bike path along the perimeter of the site. The challenging site – contaminated soil, poor drainage, and a high-water table – was reworked to provide storm water control and usable, pedestrian friendly outdoor spaces.

The scope of renovation to the existing facilities included: demolition and reconstruction of the public Restroom building (with an enclosed market office space), a new Stage structure, and demolition and expansion of the west wing of the Vendor Sheds. The remaining shed wings were refurbished and connected to the addition. The Vendor Sheds wrap around the central courtyard where pedestrians gather, musicians play, and vendors set up tents for market days and various events. New, designated food truck spaces are provided to the south side of the site adjacent to the future location of an enclosed Event Shed. This building will provide space for Park District youth activities, winter Farmers Market, and a variety of community events, making this a year-round, community gathering location.