By Sarah Binder
CEDAR RAPIDS–The NewBo City Market is working on the finishing touches.
Staff and merchants were scheduled to move in on Oct. 12.
“Throughout history, public markets have been gathering places,” said Executive Director Ann Poe. “We hope to be the conduit between fresh food and urban places.”
The market will feature about 20 permanent merchants, a flexible indoor space for seasonal markets or corporate events, and an outdoor space that can host 150 vendors during farmers market season.
For some of the anchors, NewBo City Market is their second location, while for some it’s their first entrepreneurial venture.
“Our hope is that they’re so wonderfully successful here, that they leave the market and open a storefront in the NewBo district,” Ms. Poe said, who is also a member of the Cedar Rapids City Council. “We envision us as a cornerstone for future growth of the NewBo district.”
She said hopes the market will work in conjunction with other attractions such as nearby foot and bike paths, the museums, and events at the new Paramount Theatre or Convention Center, when they open.
1.
More than 300 applications were received for vendor spots. The market narrowed those down based on diversity of offerings and then the food and products went before a selection committee.
2.
The permanent vendors include prepared foods, such as wood-fired pizza, artisan breads, or soul foods, and products such as eggs, meat, popcorn and cheese. Each vendor had to invest in a build-out of their own space.
3.
On weekends when the Downtown Farmer’s Market is active, the space in front of NewBo City Market will host a flea market, car show, juried art exhibit or other attraction so they won’t be in competition.
4.
The green space in front of the market will include a raised stage for performances, a children’s play area, a patio for alfresco dining and a community learning garden.
5.
An area is set aside for distribution to underserved populations. Ms. Poe said connecting those groups to fresh food will be a priority of hers once the market gets running.
6.
NewBo Wine and Beer will offer tastings, so customers can try before they buy. They will have four lines for seasonal microbrews, and a growler program so enthusiasts can take them home.
7.
The market site includes the original location of Theatre Cedar Rapids. TCR is pairing up with the market to put on the Costume Run on Oct. 27, and Ms. Poe said there is potential for more partnerships in the future.
8.
The grand opening, Oct. 27-28, will include a ribbon-cutting, live music, salsa dance lessons and food and drink on Saturday, and family-friendly activities including a petting zoo and puppet performances on Sunday.
