The Ocala Downtown Market opened in its new location this weekend at the corner of Southeast 3rd Street and Southeast 3rd Avenue where it features a covered pavilion.
The newly covered market was a big deal, especially since opening day saw plenty of rain. Had it not been for the new location under the pavilion, the market would not have been open for business.
The previous location was at the empty lot next to the downtown square, which was neither paved nor covered. The new location, which is at the former Ocala Police Department impound lot is paved, making it easier for people in wheelchairs or with strollers to get around. Plus, the 8,000 square-foot covered lot has large fans, electricity, lights, water and permanent restrooms.
There is some concern that the market may lose a little bit of business now that it is not as visible, however advertising efforts are trying to combat that concern. Hopefully everybody still comes out for everything that the market has to offer, including produce, cheeses, dairy, meats, honey, plants and a variety of homemade products, including jams, breads and artisan crafts. There is also plenty of space at the new location for food trucks as well as customer parking.
The former market space near the downtown square is going to be the site of a new six-story hotel, so stay tuned for more details on that project and even more downtown growth.
For further information on the new Downtown Market opening, read the full article at Ocala.com.
