Public markets include vendors or merchants who meet regularly at the same location; a sponsoring entity that has legal and financial responsibility and that oversees operations; and, in some cases, a structure to house the market. A public market expands upon traditional farmers’ markets by making fresh food available throughout the year, typically operating several days each week. Within a large, centrally-located market hall, customers find a broad selection of local produce and food products, as well as specialty foods. The number and diversity of vendors create a critical mass that can attract customers from throughout the city. Local farmers selling once or twice a week can be an important component of a public market. Examples of successful public markets can be found in Portland (Maine), Seattle, and San Francisco
The Boston Public Market Association is currently working toward creation of such a market and submitted a proposal for such a use on the Central Artery parcels. Should a Central Artery location not materialize, the City of Boston, the Commonwealth, and other agencies such as MassPort should work to find a site that could be provided for a market at nominal cost. The 2008 Environmental Bond bill included $10 million toward creation of such a market.