Since 2002, Baton Rouge’s Main Street Market has been a pillar of the downtown community, serving as a gathering space and a way for local businesses to gain exposure.
Last year, the market, operated by Big River Economic & Agricultural Development Alliance, underwent a $1.5 million renovation that included new floors, paint, furniture, a 250-gallon grease trap under the parking garage, four restaurants and a coffee shop.
Main Street Market is a gateway to the Red Stick Farmers Market, as each restaurant in the facility uses ingredients from local farmers and producers that participate in the alliance’s weekly farmers markets.
“The mission of BREADA is about three things,” said executive director Darlene Rowland. “That’s supporting small farmers, increasing food access and building community. So everything we do with River and Roots and all of Main Street is really trying to touch on those three mission initiatives.”…