Senator Lea Webb Delivers $125,000 to Friends of Ithaca Farmers Market

(Ithaca, NY) – Today, Senator Lea Webb (SD-52) announced the allocation of $125,000 in state funding for crucial structural improvements at one of Tompkins County's key community hubs, the Ithaca Farmers Market. This significant financial support will facilitate much-needed renovations, including the market's parking lot and enhancements to make the space compliant with the standards outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

This investment in the Ithaca Farmers Market reflects Senator Webb’s ongoing commitment to supporting our local farmers and small businesses. These upgrades will help to ensure that vendors have a safe and accessible venue to sell their products and enhance a gathering place that has been a staple of Tompkins County for over fifty years.

“Our farmer's markets are more than just a place to buy fresh goods; they are vibrant community hubs that enrich and nourish our communities,” said Senator Lea Webb. “The Ithaca Farmers Market provides a place for community members to engage with local small businesses and immerse themselves in arts and culture, while fostering the economic prosperity of our region. They are also a great community leader in addressing food insecurity in our region. I am proud to deliver this funding which will enhance accessibility and comfort for the hundreds of vendors and thousands of patrons that visit each year. It is my hope that with these upgrades, the market will continue to flourish and see record numbers of visitors.”

Said Monika Roth, President of the Friends of Ithaca Farmers Market, “The Ithaca Farmers Market is honored to receive this grant award.  Last year we celebrated our 50th anniversary, with the goal of being around for another 50 years. Our biggest need right now is to start investing in site improvements. The market has been located at Steamboat Landing on the Cayuga Inlet for 35 years now, and our pavilion, parking lot and waterfront site are showing their age. We look forward to making improvements that will make our site more accessible and a lovelier place to visit. It will take several years till we accomplish everything that needs to be done but this funding is a great start.” 

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