Essex Edibles

The planned Essex farmers market is on track — not quite literally. It’ll be by the tracks, though.

When the Essex Junction Railroad Avenue Revitalization Project [1] steering committee began meeting last fall, its goal was to make the downtown street a greener, friendlier space for local families. Per committee member Susan McCormack, the effort includes renovating the Junction’s namesake Amtrak station, beautifying the street with lots of new greenery — and starting a weekly farmers market.

Lori Houghton, another member of the steering committee, says the group recently sent an email survey to village residents, who voted overwhelmingly to hold the market on Saturdays.

Houghton says several food purveyors have already expressed interest in selling their wares. “Our goal is to have 10 to 15 vendors this year,” she adds.

To help encourage attendance at the market, slated to begin in June, the committee is planning more activities on the avenue. Look for local bands adding ambience to the shopping, a nonprofit presence and kids’ entertainment.