The BLVD Project and Rossville Downtown Development Authority are teaming up to host a series of open-air markets this summer. The second market will be  hosted on Friday, July 1, from 4-8 p.m. with a live performance by Ryan Oyer beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Flora De Mel will be the alcohol and food vendor and vendors with Culture Chatt will also be there to provide ethnic food options. Guests can expect a wide variety of other retailers, including produce, flowers, original artwork, and consumable goods. The first market in June was a success, with 15 vendors and hundreds of visitors, said officials. The market will be at 207 Chickamauga Ave. in Rossville, with the last market of the summer on Aug. 5.  

 The Executive Director of The BLVD Project, Heather Herweyer, said the group decided to host  open-air markets after completing a series of workshops led by the U.S. Environmental Protection  Agency. The workshops were granted to a select few cities across the country to stimulate economic development, repurpose vacant lots, and increase community access to fresh produce.

“A  market in this area seemed like it would have the most potential to lead to future development," said Ms. Herweyer. "Residents in our area are always traveling to other parts of Chattanooga/North Georgia to have fun and procure goods. We wanted to test our hypothesis that if fun events were offered in our area, people would stay here and spend their money on our local businesses here.”

Executive Director for Rossville Downtown Development Authority, Tobey Hill, says the markets  will give residents a chance to “feel Rossville.” “This event gives us a much-needed opportunity to  be a destination - even if it is just for a few hours," said Mr. Hill. "We want people to begin to see and experience Rossville differently, and I think this outdoor market series will be a vital step forward in inviting people to come in and experience our community."

The markets will feature local businesses like Flora de Mel. Owner Jay Martin says the events will be a welcomed change. “As a  new business in Rossville, Flora de Mel is thrilled to see more light coming to the area. Artists' markets bring energy, creativity, and much-needed love to downtown Rossville, and we very much  look forward to participating."

The Blvd is a group of neighbors, businesses, property owners, and passionate citizens. Several  sponsors are committed to the inaugural markets, including Bridge Innovate, Simply Bank, and CSL Plasma. To become a vendor, learn more about the event, or donate, visit  www.rossvillega.gov/rossville-blvd-market for more information.