A question has been raised regarding where the Mercer Island Farmers Market will locate next year. During the winter of 2008, the MIFM steering

committee conducted a siting evaluation to select the best location for the farmers market. With the primary needs of our community shoppers and the farmer vendors in mind, the characteristics of the Mercerdale location have proven to be excellent through our first two seasons of operation.

A few of the key advantages of this location include:

– Ample parking, without competing with residential or commercial needs;

– Easy diversion of traffic from one block of 77th around the market without stopping traffic in more densely used areas of the town center;

– Availability of public restrooms, potable water and electrical power supply;

– Picnic and playground opportunities in the adjacent park;

– Storage spaces allocated for market equipment, barricades, signage, canopies, tables and chairs;

– Ample spaces for musicians, community service booths, kids tables, and socializing.

The proven success attributes of farmers markets is dependent on vendor quality and mix, customer experience, and word-of-mouth marketing. History has also shown that markets that are forced to relocate have suffered. Fortunately, the city has approved our street permit, and the MIFM can, hopefully, stay at a prime location that is optimal for our customers, vendors and our community.

Serving our citizens and local farmers has been and will continue to be our goal. We are a sustainable operation because the Mercer Island community is engaged and supportive—thanks to all of our volunteers and shoppers!

Callie Ridolfi

On behalf of the MIFM Leadership Team