Collegeville Farmers Market Plans Come to Fruition with Opening Slated for April 30

Members of the Business Liaison Committee welcomed the community to a board meeting Sunday afternoon to discuss this year’s events. The liaison committee acts as a connection between the board, the community and local businesses.

This year, committee members are focused on several plans to cultivate a richer Main Street shopping experience for residents.

Committee chair and borough council member Andrea Baptiste talked about plans for this year, focusing on showcasing new business opportunities for Main Street and surrounding shopping centers.

“We are thinking about hosting an ‘open house' event for available spaces for retail businesses,” said Baptiste. "What we are working on now is exploring our partnership possibilities.”

Committee member Brian Dubas, also vice chair of the economic development committee, spoke at length about plans to bring in more retail businesses, as well as positioning them so Main Street will be more of a “walkable” shopping area.

Dubas detailed results that came from several months of surveys conducted by JGSC, a marketing firm in New Jersey that focuses on the revitalization and economic growth in communities.

“This gave us a game plan to meet the needs of what our folks are looking for,” he said.

Regarding another initiative to cultivate commerce in the area, committee member Catherine Kernen has been diligently producing comprehensive plans for a Collegeville Farmers Market opening April 30, with a grand opening scheduled for June 18. The market will be located at 454 E. Main St. (behind the BP gas station) and will be open on Saturdays.

“The market will include about 20 local farmers and vendors," Kernen said. “We will be providing entertainment for adults and activities for children, fostering a sense of community.”

“Historically, farmers markets are highly successful in attracting new customers to the area, increasing foot traffic and revitalizing local businesses,” said Kernen.

For more information or to be added to the upcoming news list for the farmers market, send an e-mail to Linda Flederbach.

Baptiste announced the committee would like community input and ideas for the 150^th Civil War anniversary.

“Collegeville is rich in Civil War history,” said Baptiste.

Anyone who is interested in participating can contact Reverend Martha Kriebel.

Councilwoman Louise Tulio spoke about this year's Summer Concert in the Park series. The lineup this year is to include Mango Men, Blackthorne and The Fabulous Grease Band.

“It will be a hoot, a lot of fun for the family,” Tulio added.