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Jun 20, 2023

Broad Street Market closer to erecting temporary tent for displaced vendors

Displaced Broad Street Market vendors in Harrisburg should be up and running in a temporary structure by the end of August, according to officials. During a stakeholder meeting held today between the

Displaced Broad Street Market vendors in Harrisburg should be up and running in a temporary structure by the end of August, according to officials.

During a stakeholder meeting held today between the city and its partners, a firm timeline for the installation of a heavy-duty tent at Third and Verbeke streets was determined. State and federal officials, county commissioners and representatives from Gov. Josh Shapiro’s office were on hand at the meeting.

The steel-enforced tent, which will feature flooring, electricity, heating/cooling, sewage and water, will give vendors a roof over their heads. The professional-grade tent is similar to structures used at major sporting events and by the military.

The fire broke out around 1 a.m. on July 10 in the market’s brick building and was visible from the West Shore. Harrisburg Fire Chief Brian Enterline said it was accidental and caused by a malfunctioning ceiling fan installed in 2017.

About 23 vendors were displaced. Several are operating in the market’s courtyard on regular market days from Thursdays through Saturdays until the temporary structure is ready.

City spokesman Matt Maisel said about 10 vendors will operate in the tent, and possibly more will join them. Vendors have until Aug. 1 to decide if they want to participate, and Maisel noted the tent is large enough to accommodate all of them.

The market’s Executive Director Tanis Monroy said many vendors haven’t made a decision yet, because they are trying to identify how to replace and pay for equipment lost in the fire.

“They are more than willing to be back at the market because it’s where their community is at and they know people are willing and ready to support them,” he said.

The tent will be set up on a grassy property across from the market owned by Josh Kesler, operator of the Millworks and Cork & Fork in Harrisburg. City Business Administrator Dan Hartman said the city anticipates insurance will cover the costs associated with the tent.

Looking forward, Maisel said the market’s rebuild is expected to take at least two years.

“We have taken such a negative event, a tragic event, and we are turning this into a positive,” he added.

Several fundraisers have been initiated to assist vendors, while donations also are welcome on the market’s website.

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