Four decades ago the Athens Farmer’s Market fled to East State Street to quell competition with uptown businesses, but today the market may be facing a new type of competition.
The market is currently at The Market on State, which is also the site of the soon-to-be Texas Roadhouse restaurant. The restaurant’s construction has caused some parking issues, but has not adversely affected the market as a whole.
“At the moment the only effect is parking,” said market manager Kip Parker. “There are not as many vendors and products now.”
The market’s location changes with the seasons and a more permanent home is being discussed.
“The restaurant has accelerated the process of finding a new and permanent home,” said Gary Molina, owner of Old Dog Acres and a Farmer’s Market board member.
Even with limited parking, sales have not been different from last year.
“I haven’t noticed much of a difference so far but the construction may have more of an effect,” said Maureen Burns-Hooker, founder of The Herbal Sage Tea. She said the construction hasn’t affected sales.
“We are very well supported in the community, and many people are very dedicated to the market,” said Burns-Hooker.
Texas Roadhouse, which specializes in steak and country-style cooking, is scheduled to open March 24 said Deedra Semones, Managing Partner at Texas Roadhouse.
“Our goal is to really become part of the community by being a place families can celebrate their birthdays and to celebrate when parents come into town to visit,” Semones said.
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This article appeared in print under the headline "Farmer’s Market to be displaced by restaurant."
