Governor Rell: State Investing $350,000 To Help Modernize Regional Farmers Market

Press Release

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that $350,000 to modernize the Hartford Regional Farmers Market is expected to be approved when the state Bond Commission meets December 10.

"As the demand for locally grown products increases, these upgrades will give consumer greater choices and convenience. The Regional Market has long been a popular draw and will become even more so with the redesign," Governor Rell said during a visit today at the Regional Market. "Connecticut farmers will have an ideal setting to market their goods year-round. It is the perfect stage to showcase Connecticut grown products and will provide an economic boost to the region and state."

Encompassing more than 280,000 square feet, the Regional Market has been a central location for farmers and wholesalers to sell their products since 1951. It is the largest food distribution terminal between Boston and New York. Planned upgrades on the 32-acre expanse include enclosing the open-air market pavilions and parking improvement and re-routing traffic flow for easier consumer access.

The market, located with easy access to Interstates 84 and 91, currently contributes $165 million in annual gross sales to the state's economy and houses 19 private wholesale businesses and 144 open-air stalls for Connecticut-grown products.

State agriculture officials say new facilities will benefit Connecticut's diverse agriculture industry, including the top state's top industry -- nurseries and greenhouses -- by allowing producers to market plants year-round.

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