Downtown Farmers Market may become a year-round fixture at revitalized Pioneer Park

Why it matters: Pioneer Park, which hosts the Downtown Farmers Market each summer, has suffered a poor reputation for decades, perceived as unsafe and affected by homelessness.

What they're saying: In a statement, Downtown Alliance executive director Dee Brewer said he believes "we can change the chemistry of the park."

• "We have done it every summer Saturday for 34 years with the Downtown Farmers Market," he said. "Pioneer Park is safe, active and communal on market days. We are ready to build on that success to vitalize the park and the neighborhood."
• "Pioneer Park is a cornerstone of our downtown heritage, and it has long been full of untapped potential," Mendenhall said in a statement.

State of play: Under the memorandum of understanding, the alliance is proposing lawn games, cafe-style seating, a beverage bar and staffed bathrooms.

• The permanent building would also host community and private events and downtown ambassadors, who will have a daily presence at the park.
• That's on top of the projects already funded and included in the city's Pioneer Park Vision Plan.
• Construction is planned to begin this fall on amenities including a picnic pavilion, a mist fountain plaza, a contemporary playground, a basketball court, and six pickleball courts.

What's next: The summer farmers market will kick off June 7 and run through Oct. 25 every Saturday from 8am to 2pm.