With that in mind, JFM General Manager, Greg Tison was recently recognized as “National Market Manager of the Year - 2017” by the National Association of Produce Managers (NAPMM). According to the all-volunteer group of managers of retail, wholesale and public markets from across North America and beyond, Under Mr. Tison, who became JFM manager in 2010, JFM has experienced continued growth and expansion, along with upgraded facilities.

Now plans for a significant facelift and customer accommodation project are prepared to get underway at the market this week. Building permits have been pulled for an array of improvements including wider sidewalks, metal awnings and safety bollards along all building facades and handicap access improvements. Of significance, the permanent metal awnings will eliminate current makeshift tarps to shield sun-sensitive products being sold by the market’s vendors. In addition, the project will add signage along the facade of building sheds, identifying the market’s growing list of tenants. Completion on this $560,000 project is anticipated to take place around July 4th. $150,000 of which is being provided by the Northwest Jacksonville Economic Development Trust Fund.

Open to the public every day of the year from dawn (7 AM) to dusk (6 PM), the Jacksonville Farmers Market is located at 1810 W. Beaver Street (US 90), only minutes west of Interstate 95 and Downtown Jacksonville.

Article by Ennis Davis, AICP. Contact Ennis at edavis@moderncities.com