Logan Square Farmers Market back on this weekend after concerns of safety, traffic
CHICAGO (CBS) – A popular Chicago farmers market was in jeopardy this week. Vendors were told the Logan Square Farmers Market was canceled on Sunday, before organizers reversed that decision Thursday night.
Vendors who rely on income from the market believe it was a case of growing pains.
The Logan Square Farmers Market has become increasingly popular. Organizers told one vendor they made the decision to cancel this week's event over safety concerns. But now it's back.
City leaders previously chose to it shut down after denying plans to expand the market along Logan Boulevard.
The event has seen a growing number of unofficial vendors setting up shop outside of the market, causing traffic and safety concerns.
It's not clear what deal was reached between organizers and the city.
In an email to vendors Thursday night, organizers said the show would go on.
"My response is: Hallelujah. They're open, and this gets us one step closer to where we need to be," said Corban Koster, manager of Geneva Lakes Produce.
Koster said he drives about 90 minutes from his family farm in Wisconsin to set up at the market near Logan Boulevard and Milwaukee Avenue on Sundays.
"This is the busiest farmers market that we attend, and according to the records that we keep year to year, this is the busiest weekend of the year for us as well," he said.
Koster said he has seen crowds double in size in recent years; each new face an opportunity for people trying to launch a new product.
Mohammad Khan, with Schiller Park-based Begumz, is at the market every other week, including this Sunday.
"My goal is at least 100 jars, and that's like a great day for us," he said. "The market gives us the opportunity to share a sample with folks; just get it into their system. Kind of exposure. You know what I mean?"
This week's cancellation prompted a public outcry, social media posts from aldermen, and action in the mayor's office.
Mayor Brandon Johnson's office issued the following statement:
"The Mayor's Office held a series of meetings with the Chicago Police Department, Office of Emergency Management and Communications, and departments of Transportation, Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and Business Affairs and Consumer Protection to reexamine the footprint the Logan Square Farmers Market has in the community, and we are pleased that one of our city's best outdoor markets offering fresh fruit, vegetables and other goods will continue providing months of business for its vendors, and enjoyment for residents and visitors alike."
It's business Koster can't afford to miss, as he plans to use money from this weekend to rebuild after a fire devastated his warehouse.
"Honestly, a really good weekend is gonna give us enough money to be able to make that purchase," he said.
The Logan Square Chamber of Commerce, which helps organize the market, did not respond to requests for comment.
The market will go on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.