face lift.
If you plan to visit the Roanoke Farmer’s Market over the next 60 days, be prepared for a change of face. The farmer’s stalls are currently undergoing desperately needed awning replacements. Right now the awnings by the Center in the Square, and along the first block in front of Thomas’ Market up to Wertz’s Restaurant are completely gone. They were removed Sunday, and workers are underway this week pressure washing and painting the existing steel structure that was hiding underneath. The painting should be done by this weekend, however, and while the awnings will still be absent for a bit, the weather looks to be clear and all of your favorite market vendors plan to be present. The entire structure is planned to be revamped within a 60 day time frame. Ben, who is best known for his rock, fossils, and minerals sold on the market, believes the workers have so far proven to be fairly efficient and holds hope they will be wrapping up the entire renovation within 40 days. While the new awnings were supposed to have been replaced over winter months, the city failed to approve a bid and secure a contract in time so as not to clash with the busy spring season. I have heard, however, that the majority of the painting will be completed at night so as not to interfere with vendors wishing to conduct business. Unfortunately, the first few days of the revamp closed down Thomas’ Market, and Monday, Sumdat was closed as well. However, vendors are still selling and would love to have you visit the Market this weekend!
Incidentally, Saturday kicks off the 2007 Music in the Market Series sponsored by Ukrops, who plans to open this year on Franklin Rd. by Towers. Bands will play every Saturday and Sunday from 11am - 2pm through September 30th. This coming Saturday, March 31st, Wild Turkey will be playing their acoustic, unplugged Oldtime music on banjos and fiddles. Sunday, April 1st, brings Poison Bottom to the Market. Poison Bottom is another Oldtime band, and they’ll be traveling from Lexington to play for us. Cross your fingers and toes that the weather holds out for them on Sunday.
