The Downtown Binghamton Courtyard Market opened for the season on July 7th. The market is a collaboration between the City of Binghamton, Rural Health Network, VINES, and several local businesses. Thomas Lewis, Community Food Coordinator with the Rural Health Network, worked with the city to establish the market as a nonprofit, as well as by providing assistance with outreach, marketing, and other technical assistance. The market will be open every Tuesday from 4 pm – 7 pm until the first week of October at the Metrocenter Courtyard in Downtown Binghamton.
Farmers’ markets provide rural and urban community development opportunities by creating market access and encouraging the use of public space. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the outdoor market provides a socially distanced space for community members to support local farms, florists, artists, caterers, herbalists, and other businesses. The market expanded this year from five to fifteen vendors and has seen a significant increase in customer traffic. The market also offers opportunities to promote food access and vendors selling produce are currently accepting FVRx vouchers. SNAP will be available to use at the market within the next few weeks. To learn more about the Downtown Binghamton Courtyard Market visit its Facebook page. We also encourage everyone to read this fantastic WSKG profile on Triple J Farm, a new addition to the market this year!