Riverfront market

Downtown Cape Girardeau is undergoing a number of changes. The owners of some of the area's dilapidated buildings have announced, and begun work on, their properties. Construction on a $3.25 million Broadway corridor project will start soon. Along with these changes, a local group is proposing an open-air market near the Cape Girardeau riverfront.

Tonight a public forum will be held to discuss the idea of a riverfront market. Organizers are looking to hear from potential vendors, business owners, artists and others in the community. The meeting will start at 6 p.m. and will be held in the fellowship hall of the First Presbyterian Church, 235 Broadway.

One local resident behind the idea is Levi Olson. In a recent story in the Southeast Missourian, Olson recalled his childhood memories of visiting a farmers market in San Luis Obispo, Calif. He described an experience which included local produce being sold and various entertainment opportunities.

The concept for a riverfront market was part of Cape Girardeau's Downtown Strategic Plan. Old Town Cape's board has agreed to oversee the market initially. However, Marla Mills, executive director of Old Town Cape, said the hope is that the market would ultimately become its own entity.

We appreciate those who initiate projects, such as this one, that are meant to improve the area's quality of life. To hear more about the concept or to provide feedback to the organizers, consider attending tonight's forum.