Troy Farmers Market still on hold
Organizers said they are developing online ordering
TROY, N.Y. » The Troy Waterfront Farmers Market will remain closed this weekend, as organizers continue to develop strategies to deliver fresh farm food safely to customers.
“Although the state has classified farmers markets as essential to the food supply, the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market is taking extra steps to ensure the safety of our customers, vendors, and staff before we re- open this spring,” Manager of the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market Steve Ridler said in a news release. “We are working with the county health department and city officials to find the right way to reopen with the very best social distancing practices and safety.”
Ridler said county and city officials expressed concern over the market’s popularity, which draws loyal customers from far and wide. Everyone agreed the market will be held outdoors when it resumes, rather than inside its normal winter headquarters at the Troy Atrium. (In a typical year, the market does not move outside until May.)
Though not yet able to give a specific date or location, Ridler said that when the market reopens outside it will be different. Initially, it will only include food from local farms and food processors. Measures to limit the market’s size and scope will aim to discourage socializing or congregating.
“We know that when we reopen outdoors, many of our loyal customers will return along with new customers eager for fresh produce which can be in short supply at the groceries these days,” Ridler said. “We will have strict new protocols in place for the handling of food, payment and customer interactions.”
Vendor booths will be spaced out farther than usual. Customers will be instructed on how to maintain safe social distancing while waiting in line. Gathering will be discouraged.
ONLINE ORDERING COMING SOON
The market is in the advance stages of developing an online platform to handle orders for pickup. Online customers in this virtual market will be able to select items from any participating vendor then make a single payment for the total purchase price.
All items will be packed into a single box or bag, which will be available at a central drive-thru pickup location with minimal need for interaction. There will be a walk-up component as well.
Ridler said the market is also exploring options for delivery but could not make any promises yet.
“Right now, our farmers are getting ready for the spring crops, sowing, planting, and pruning,” Ridler said. “We will soon have an abundance of local produce for the Capital Region and a safe, healthy way to get it to you.”
In the meantime, organizers said many of the market’s individual farmers and producers are selling their products directly at their farms, in other stores and locations, or through online ordering and delivery.
For a complete list of where to buy items from your favorite Troy Waterfront Farmers Market vendors, visit: https://www.troymarket.org/alternatives
For updates and to sign up to the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market email newsletter, visit: https://www.troymarket.org
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