The City of Parkville is pleased to announce the unveiling of the new farmers market structure at a ribbon cutting event this Thursday, July 24th in downtown Parkville. The event will be held at the new structure located near the entrance to English Landing Park where the former farmers market stood since 1991.
The project to rebuild the farmers market began in spring 2022, following the removal of the old market due to significant damage by two large trucks. The City worked with BBN Architects, the Board of Aldermen and Community Land & Recreation Board, City staff, and members of the community to determine the design of the new market. In the end, the majority felt a replica of the former structure fit the best within the community and was a nod to its history. E.L. Crawford Construction, contractor for the project, completed construction on the structure last week. While the structure is done, there are still things that need to be done – most notably, installation of the sign on top.
In addition to the new structure, the parking lot around the farmers market is being upgraded to improve functionality, safety, and the overall look for market operations, park visitors, and downtown visitors. Traffic and safety improvements, such as angled parking, expanded pedestrian pathways, and site layouts to improve accessibility, were added. In addition, the parking lots to the west of the new farmers market will be redone this summer, along with landscaping and plantings when weather conditions are suitable. All these things create a more suitable and prominent park entry point that aligns with and will connect to future streetscape improvements planned as part of the Route 9 project.
The ribbon cutting will be held at the new farmers market on Thursday, July 24th at 3:00 p.m. Mayor Katerndahl will be the speaker. The Parkville Farmers Market Association, who runs the Parkville Farmers Market, will have a celebration on August 9th.
City Administrator Alexa Barton said, “We’re excited to celebrate the opening of the new farmers market/shelter structure – it’s been a long time coming. This project has truly been a team effort, and I’m proud of how our staff, partners, and community came together to rebuild something that means so much to Parkville. The new structure honors the history of the old market while making important improvements to the space. It’s more than just a building – its a place where neighbors connect, local businesses grow, and our community gathers. We can’t wait to see it full of life again.”
For additional information, contact Parks & Recreation Director Brittanie Propes by e-mail at bpropes@parkvillemo.gov or by phone at (816) 741-7676.
