Local farmers’ markets to reopen with additional precautions

PITTSBURGH — Farmers’ markets across our area are starting to open this weekend, but if you plan to head to one to get some fresh produce, expect to see changes.

They’re considered essential businesses because they provide food.

Bloomfield Saturday Market, which usually draws 2,000 people per day, reopens Saturday morning.

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Organizers said they’re setting up a queuing line and will be limiting the number of people shopping at one time to just 25.

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Vendor tables will be farther apart to help ensure social distancing, and each aisle will be one-way shopping, much like in many grocery stores.

Vendors like Hello Hummus won’t be offering samples this time around.

Market manager Abi Gildea said they are allowing any form of payment, including SNAP and EBT, so as many people as possible can support the vendors and have access to the foods and meats they provide. SNAP and EBT users would be excluded if the Bloomfield Saturday Market only did pay ahead or curbside pickup.

“The options for them to go somewhere and physically use their card and get that access is just really important, especially now in a time like this. We’re just happy to be there for anyone who needs it,” Gildea said.

The vendors have sanitizing requirements, and there will be sanitizing stations around the market.

If you're planning to go, organizers ask that you send one person from your house, don't bring your dog, and pick up food for your at-risk neighbors if you can.

The Bloomfield Saturday Market is held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 5050 Liberty Ave. between S. Winebiddle and Gross streets.

The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership announced Thursday that the Market Square Farmers Market, will reopen at a new date and time and in a temporary location.

This year, the market will open on Sunday, May 17 in a parking lot at 11th Street and Waterfront Place.

The larger space will prove enough space for social distancing while providing access to farmers and customers.

They’ll now operate on Sundays from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. and there will be limits on the number of shoppers in the market and in lines.

There is money available for people in need. It’s called the Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program. You can see if you qualify through the Pennylvania Department of Agriculture website.

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