Arriving on the first day of Elvers Park Farmers Market, opening for the very first time on June 10th, I encountered the busyness like any other ordinary market, but its founding reflects important considerations from the local community.

The market is situated between three lower income communities in Dane County, WI: Park Edge/Park Ridge, Hammersley/Theresa and the Balsam/Russett neighborhood. Its founding helps solve some of the problems many lower income communities face, including community building, proper health and food insecurity. Nearest Stores like Wal-Mart and Wegman’s across the nearby highway are not accessible by foot, but Elver’s Farmers Market is located for convenient access. It does not only boast free parking, but is also situated right off major bike paths (I biked from the Southwest commuter trail). The market also carefully considers economic issues: accepting both SNAP and EBT.

The first day of the market was a success! Fresh strawberries, and colorful flowers currently line the market. Vendors and local businesses excitingly interacted with their new customers and partnerships with local businesses serve important health and education purposes as well. MG&E energy company demonstrated a solar demo and energy awareness, while SSM Health shared valuable nutrition and general health information. The market will serve a very important role in the community, both as a needed space for access to fresh fruit and vegetables, but as an education resource as well.

Resources: http://host.madison.com/ct/news/local/govt-and-politics/a-new-farmers-market-in-madison-s-elver-park-hopes/article_70a441e5-0ae3-5b54-9abf-ea93fe539a49.html