Public market intriguing

It strains the imagination that Utahns would have much appetite to shop at a public market on a frigid winter morning. But Utahns are a hearty stock. They likely would come out — rain or shine — if they had a compelling reason.

Earlier this week, a public-market consultant told the Salt Lake City Council that the city is primed for a year-round public market. Such a venture would be a "significant benefit to downtown Salt Lake," said Ted Spitzer, who also is president of Market Ventures Inc.

Many coastal cities have year-round public markets, which are highly successful. Shoppers can purchase fresh fish, fresh seafood and fresh flowers, along with crafts and baked goods. Over the years, these markets have become an integral part of their communities.

Salt Lake's Downtown Alliance is studying Spitzer's recommendations. A cost analysis is being conducted along with research into possible funding sources. Spitzer estimates a Salt Lake City market would generate $14 million in annual sales. Shoppers, he says, would be willing to drive 20 to 30 minutes to shop at a large, successful public market.

The seasonal Downtown Farmers Market at Pioneer Park has been a considerable success. It runs Saturdays from June through mid-October. It has helped to revitalize Pioneer Park on the weekends, and it brings together a wide variety of growers and consumers in an urban setting.

There is tremendous benefit to creating experiences that bring communities together. Take Seattle's Pike Place Market. It boasts 9 million visitors a year, according to the Web site www.pikeplacemarket.org. The nine-acre market features 190 commercial businesses, 50 restaurants and take-out establishments and 200 tables rented by the day. Now 100 years old, Pike Place Market is considered one of the city's most famous amenities.

The possibilities are certainly exciting. But more study is needed to determine whether this would be a good fit in Salt Lake City, which could benefit from more experiences that build community and create a marketplace for local produce growers, bakers, sausage makers and artisans, to name a few. We look forward to the Downtown Alliance's next report.