MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley has announced a $58,344 grant for the construction of a farmers market in Somerville.
The Appalachian Regional Commission grant will help build a 3,500-square-foot pavilion on 1.6 acres of property owned by the Morgan County town and located along Alabama Highway 67. The pavilion will be used by local farmers, artisans and businesses to sell fresh, locally grown food and handmade items.
“Having access to fresh food is important to support the good health of our citizens,” Bentley said. “I am pleased to see the development of this market for the people of Somerville and the surrounding area.”
The market will be located near two convenience stores, taking advantage of existing traffic and customers who travel to the area.
The county will provide in-kind services and labor for the project, including site preparation to clear and level the land, widening the access point from the highway and constructing a gravel parking lot. Once the market is open, the town will fund operations and maintenance, including a part-time market manager.
Bentley notified Somerville Mayor Darren Tucker that the grant had been approved.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the ARC program in Alabama.
media release/Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
