In June 2022, the City of East Lansing submitted a grant proposal to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for its Valley Court Park infrastructure project. The project would construct a permanent pavilion with public restrooms, storage and an accessible playground.
Construction is planned for the spring of 2024. Valley Court Park is home to the East Lansing farmers market, as well as other community events such as the annual Autumn Fest.
Phil Throop, owner of Wildflower Eco Farm, has been a vendor at the East Lansing farmers market for several years. He is excited for the future of the farmers market. Throop said, “If it is a physical shelter that would potentially make it so I don’t have to have a tent.” Many vendors at the farmers market are being notified of the plan and meeting times to discuss details.
This project seeks the community’s input through engagement opportunities and resources. Comments sent to pavilion@cityofeastlansing.com, will be shared by the commission and council. Planning commission meetings are also held at East Lansing Hannah Community Center, 819 Abbot Road.
Deputy city manager and director of planning, building and development Thomas J. Fehrenbach said, “Bringing more people to Valley Court Park brings more customers within walking distance of several existing businesses providing the opportunity for their growth. … This new activity will grow the tax base.”
He said, “Through this collective expansion and diversification of our market, and the new focus on leveraging public spaces, we will be more resilient.” For information regarding the pavilion park improvement project visit their website. https://www.cityofeastlansing.com/2317/Farmers-Market-Pavilion-Park-Improvement