Small Town News

Farmers market grant approved for Beaver Dam

---

A lot of produce has been sold in downtown Beaver Dam over the years, but it's been a long time -- if ever -- that the city had its very own farmer's market.

That's about to change. Word out of Frankfort last week has the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board approving $48,000 toward the construction of a farmer's market pavilion in Beaver Dam's new city park. Another $2,000 will be coming in Ohio County Agricultural Development funds.

When completed, the project will provide a permanent location for farm producers to sell their products to the public and provide local residents an outlet for farm-fresh products.

The open-air facility will have access to water and electric hookups, plus restroom facilities.

"We've talked about a farmer's market for quite awhile and, at one point, considered building one on a lot adjacent to city hall," said Mayor Mary Pate. "But, it just never got off the ground." The actual cost of the 40x60xl0-foot structure will be $100,000, Pate said, and can be used for other activities when not in use by farmers.

"We think it will a great addition to our city and one our residents and the residents of Ohio County will appreciate and enjoy," Pate said. "When not in use as a farmer's market, we envision it serving as part of an entertainment center."

Pate said no specific times and days have yet been designated for use by farmers. However, she noted that most farmer's markets are not open every day of the week.

A bid has been awarded to Riverview Excavation, Glasgow, for excavation and drainage of the new park-sports complex and bids are expected to be advertised for the farmer's market pavilion at the next meeting of the Beaver Dam City Commission.

"I believe there is a definite need for a farmer's market in Beaver Dam and I know it will be an asset to the city," Pate said. "People in this day and age are very interested in fresh fruits and vegetables and this will afford them the opportunity to have them."

Senator Jerry Rhoads, who represents Ohio County in the Kentucky General Assembly, was instrumental in securing the funding.

"Considering the state of our economy today, any assistance to our area is exciting," Rhoads said. "The construction of a farmer's market pavilion in the city park will be a great asset to the City of Beaver Dam and to Ohio County for many years. Farmer's markets benefit local producers as well as the consumers who enjoy being able to purchase local produce."



Copyright 2009 The Ohio County Times-News, Hartford, Kentucky. All Rights Reserved. This content, including derivations, may not be stored or distributed in any manner, disseminated, published, broadcast, rewritten or reproduced without express, written consent from SmallTownPapers, Inc.

© 2010 The Ohio County Times-News Hartford, Kentucky. All Rights Reserved. This content, including derivations, may not be stored or distributed in any manner, disseminated, published, broadcast, rewritten or reproduced without express, written consent from DAS.

More from The Ohio County Times-News