SALT LAKE CITY — How would you like to enjoy the popular Downtown Farmers Market at Pioneer Park year-round instead of just during the warm summer months?
Moving to an every-weekend-of-the-year schedule for the market is part of a proposal from the Salt Lake City Downtown Alliance and Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, who have agreed to explore the creation of a public-private partnership for managing the park. That partnership would also expand the Farmers Market to a year-round event, as well as serve as a venue for other events throughout the year.
"This type of investment and partnership is important for so many reasons — but especially because improvement to our public spaces make our city safer — and we recognize our ability to enjoy our downtown really hinges on safety, both actual and perceived safety," Mendenhall said during at a State of Downtown event.
According to city officials, fewer than 200 people currently use Pioneer Park on a daily basis outside of farmers market day.
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Local business owners near the park are enthusiastic about the planned improvements.
"I am all in — revitalizing the park does nothing but good. This area needs it. The businesses right here need it," said Brady McIntyre, owner of Cucina Toscana and Mac's Place, which are located across the street from Pioneer Park.
While financing details and a specific timeline for the public building are still being developed, Mayor Mendenhall confirmed the city plans to break ground on its Pioneer Vision Plan this fall, which will improve the park's amenities.
McIntyre believes the improvements will restore pride among those who work and live near the park.
"If the area is active and it's being used, that gives everyone around here the reason to keep it clean, keep it nice," he said. "And activity is just good for the area."
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