Options are rather limited for a piece of property awaiting development. It could sit fallow until the construction crew shows up. Or, in the case of a 15-acre site behind Carrabba’s in St. Lucie West, it could be turned into a weekend farmers market.
The newest owners of the site, Town Place at St. Lucie West, decided that while they bide their time developing the property, they would establish a community-centric, locally-focused gathering.
The property, officially located at 1855 SW Fountainview Blvd., St. Lucie West, is tucked behind Carrabba’s, near Bob Evan’s.
“Back there, there’s a whole new world,” said farmers market organizer Rose Sgarlato. The palm tree-lined property comes to life every Sunday rain or shine with numerous vendors who live and/or work in St. Lucie and Indian River counties.
“It’s a community attraction we wanted to create,” said Sgarlato. She explained that the bent of the farmers market is to highlight and celebrate local farmers and growers, as well as crafters and artisans.
Sgarlato said that the farmers market will also be a place to share healthy and natural well-being ideas, keeping the focus local and supporting locals.
Visitors to the St. Lucie Farmers Market at Town Place can expect to find a wide-range of produce, honey, added-value items such as hot sauces and salsas, along with artisan coffees, handmade soaps, lip balm, and treats for Fido and his friends.
There will be pop-up booths, too, for seasonal vendors. With Christmas in sight, shoppers could score last-minute gifts at the holiday craft booths offering wreaths, candles and the like.
Jennifer Sofia, who manages the property for the owner, said the developer and the management team wanted to use space that they already had in order to put together the farmers market.
She said the owner, who was not named, has a passion and vision using the land in a way that benefits the community – even before construction begins.
Sofia said the team recognizes that retail is moving online – cutting the need for brick-and-mortar retail spaces. A farmers market provides that retail space without the need for permanent space. “It was a small idea that blossomed,” Sofia said.
Sgarlato said that though there is a set number of vendor booths at the market, the event has not yet maxed out. Would-be vendors interested in having a booth at the market are encouraged to reach out to Sgarlato directly by calling 954-290-4559.
Parking and admission to the farmers market are free, but attendees should plan to bring cash. Sgarlato said it is up to the individual vendors as to whether or not they’ll take debit/credit cards.
Want to go?
The Farmers Market is held Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. rain or shine at 1855 SW Fountainview Blvd., St. Lucie West, is tucked behind Carrabba’s, near Bob Evan’s.
