Vision

We see a vibrant Central Market that embraces its history as the country’s oldest publicly-owned, continuously-operated farmers market. We value the connections it provides us -- between our past and our future, between our city and county, between residents and visitors, and between the building and the surrounding area. We cherish Market’s role as an oasis of "high-touch" in today’s sea of "high tech"; as a source of nourishment for body and mind; and as an authentic embodiment of our history. We view Central Market as the heart of our community, and want it to remain so for decades to come.

{S. Clyde Weaver }

Mission

The Central Market Master Plan Committee will develop a long-range master plan for establishing a financially self-sustaining Central Market operation that embraces the historic and architectural integrity of Central Market and its environs and that is developed through an open, public process. This master plan could:

• define the area that shall be identified as the Central Market District;
• identify and preserve the "public good" that is served by Central Market;
• identify the sustaining constituencies served by Central Market;
• identify assets that are an inherent part of Central Market and the surrounding district;
• define and differentiate between core functions and peripheral functions of Central Market;
• address key strategic issues related to local and national economic trends, access to food, and demographic, multi-cultural, and consumer trends that impact public farmers’ markets today and in the future;
• incorporate available "best practices" related to historic preservation, ordinances and governance, and operations of public markets;
• develop an ongoing and effective management structure for market;
• identify how Central Market can maintain a healthy business environment;
• identify financial resources to ensure Central Market’s sustainability in the future

{Ric}

In all its actions, the Central Market Master Plan Committee will strive to help Central Market:

• remain true to its sustaining constituencies and stakeholders (standholders, patrons, etc.)
• value its connection to the community it serves
• operate in harmony with the surrounding district
• treasure and respects the rich history of the market house and the market square
• be preserved as a community hub and social center
• maintain and even enhances its contribution to the public good
• appreciate its unique niche as an authentic connection to our past
• function within the content of its unique position as a historic farmers market

{Flowers}