Since 2005, Steamboat Springs has grown from six vendors on the courthouse lawn, to 200 and still growing. Eight of these vendors have opened bricks and mortar establishments in town. Each year, the market generates about $3 million in sales, and generates another $3.5 million in downtown sales. It is the most attended event in Steamboat Springs with more than 100,000 people visiting every year. Main Street Steamboat Springs partners with local farmers and producers to present the best assortment possible to the community; many locals do their weekly grocery shopping at the market in season. There is also complimentary space for city staff and council, as well as more than 50 nonprofits and community agencies.
The Colorado Main Street program provided funding to engage the community in a re-imagining of Yampa Street. Changes and improvements were made to reduce the speed limit to 15 mph, sidewalks were expanded, and the town provided additional access to the river for tubing and fishing, plus added benches and art into the parks. The market draws so many people and vendors that local businesses have seen an increase in sales. The downtown area is also now in a strong position to compete with neighboring retail areas and future development. Steamboat Springs Main Street uses proceeds from the Farmers Market to run the organization and continue beautification efforts and advertising.
“The Farmers Market has turned into a place for incubation of business and is really the social hub of town for our residents and visitors,” said Lisa Popovich, Executive Director, Main Street Steamboat Springs. “Understand the needs of your community and your vendors and try to balance the two. Listen to people’s suggestions, no matter how crazy, because eventually, they will make sense. Be as flexible as you can without making yourself crazy. You are only limited by your own imagination, so expand your thinking by talking to people.”