Mayor Tecklenburg announces West Ashley Farmers Market
July 25, 2016
CHARLESTON, SC – This fall the City of Charleston will host a pilot farmers market west of the Ashley. The West Ashley Farmers Market will be held on Wednesday evenings from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., September 14 through October 26 at Ackerman Park on Sycamore Avenue.
Extensive research and public input was gathered as part of the farmers market planning process, which was led by the Department of Planning, Preservation and Sustainability. Input was collected via public surveys and focus groups; results identified community preferences regarding market location, schedule, character, amenities, accessibility and vendor mix.
Ackerman Park was selected as the location because it is a popular and easily accessible City-owned park.
“Our hope is that the West Ashley Farmers Market will be a catalyst in the revitalization of the area,” said Mayor John Tecklenburg. He continued, “The evening market hours will offer our community members the opportunity to visit the market on their way home from work, to do their grocery shopping and grab dinner with friends, family and neighbors.”
The West Ashley Farmers Market will be produced by the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs in cooperation with the City of Charleston Parks Department. The Office of Cultural Affairs has a long history of producing the highly successful downtown Charleston Farmers Market.
The West Ashley Farmers Market will be dedicated to the support and advocacy of local farmers and growers and will feature fresh seasonal produce, as well as sweet and savory foods from area vendors who source ingredients from nearby farms. The West Ashley Farmers Market will build upon the success of the Charleston Farmers Market by expanding access to local fresh food, supporting the local economy and local agriculture, providing a civic gathering place and opportunities for community engagement. A curated program of live entertainment and family-friendly activities will enhance the farmers market experience.
Addressing one of the key strategies in the City of Charleston’s 2014 West Ashley Strategic Plan, the West Ashley Farmers market will help create community partnerships and reactivate civic spaces.
Applications are now being accepted from qualified local farmers, growers and food vendors. To apply, contact the Office of Cultural Affairs at (843) 724-7305 or visit http://www.
