MT. PLEASANT — The City of Mt. Pleasant has been awarded a $2.79 million grant through the Michigan Talent Partnership Program for the construction of a new farmers market pavilion and commercial kitchen at Island Park.
The funding, coming from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, aims to create a versatile, year-round space to support local farmers, community events and small businesses. Mayor Boomer Wingard emphasized that this innovative market space will serve the entire Mid-Michigan region as communities navigate economic uncertainties.
The new pavilion will include a commercial kitchen incubator and will be a major enhancement to Island Park’s existing facilities, which have been in place since the 1970s. The existing pavilions have been unable to accommodate the growing demand for flexible venues suitable for various community programs and events.
According to City of Mt. Pleasant staff, “This investment positions the new multi-use pavilion as a powerful economic driver for Mt. Pleasant, supporting local farmers and vendors while expanding opportunities for small businesses through a commercial kitchen incubator.” This new infrastructure will help foster local entrepreneurship and attract visitors.
The addition of the commercial kitchen is particularly crucial, as the nearest shared kitchens are more than 80 miles away. This facility will lower barriers for aspiring food entrepreneurs, facilitating the growth of small and diverse food businesses within the community.
This project is expected to enhance the connection between Island Park and Downtown Mt. Pleasant, improving accessibility and encouraging foot traffic between the two. Walkability and visibility will increase with the new pavilion, helping to revitalize the area and promote local commerce.
Planning and design work for the project is expected to begin in 2026. Further details will be shared as the project progresses. More information about the City of Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market can be found at www.mt-pleasant.org/farmersmarket.