Downtown Novato Farmers Market A No Go

Downtown Novato merchants gave a resounding ‘no’ this week to a plan to close Sherman Avenue on Saturdays to make room for a year-round farmers market.

But that doesn’t mean that the idea is off the table and Agricultural Community Events, which puts on the Tuesday night market, is working with the city to identify another location.

“We are pursuing alternatives with the city, but nothing is yet concrete,” said Kelly Smith, director of the company.

On Wednesday, downtown merchants voiced their opposition to a weekly morning market, saying the event would reduce parking spots and block entry into their shops. An estimated 45 businesses were at the meeting and all but one rejected the plan.

Another location has not been identified, but it’s unlikely to be anywhere in Old Town, according to Downtown Novato Business Association President Darren Pomponio.

SOUND OFF: Do you think Novato should have a Saturday farmers market? If so, where would you like to see it set up?