MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - On May 22, members of the community, supporters, Township leaders and Meridian Mall staff gathered together to break ground at the site of the new Meridian Township Farmers' Market which is being called the Marketplace on the Green.

The long anticipated farmers' market construction will soon begin. 

The market isn't moving far from it's current location, next to the Township Municipla Building now to be located across Central Park Drive near the Meridian Mall. 

Crossover shoppers between the mall and market will hopefully give the mall area an economic boost.  

The Mall already hosts the Meridian Farmers' Market during the winter months, so the partnership isn't entirely new. 

Shawn Dunham is the Specialty Leasing Manager at the Meridian Mall and is thrilled to have a closer connection between the Mall and community. 

"When someone comes and parks with their family to spend the day, visit the market, after they grab their produce and listen to a band they might want to grab lunch. So they'll visit Olive Garden for lunch. And then after that, let's go visit Launch Trampoline Park to spend a few hours there. After that check out High Caliber Carting and Entertainment and shop at some of the retailers. It creates an immersive experience where a consumer can come and spend a day with their family. It benefits all the retailers and the community as a whole." 

Covered vendor space and parking for visitors should no longer be an issue at the new site which also includes a playground and stage area for musicians.

The new structure should be completed in time for next year's summer market.

The Meridian Farmers' Market is operating at it's current location on Saturdays from 8 am to 2 pm.