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More Space, Masks Required At Farmers Markets This Season

Farmers markets are beginning to return to the Pittsburgh region and like most entities, COVID-19 has changed the way they operate. Some markets have pushed back opening dates to make time to figure out what needs to change in order to maintain social distancing and keep vendors safe. 

The Downtown farmers market will open for the season Sunday, but in a new location; organizers have moved it from Market Square to 11th Street near the Convention Center. Attendees are asked to wear masks, to preorder selections online when possible and limit parties to one or two people. 

Similar precautions are in place at the Bloomfield Saturday Market which opened last weekend. Market manager Abi Gildea says masks are just one requirement.

Credit Elena Shahen / Bloomfield Saturday Market
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Bloomfield Saturday Market
Market manager Abi Gildea hopes market goers can stay patient as more lines are expected this year to keep in line with social distancing requirements.

"If you're sick please don't come; one person per household; we're not allowing any dogs; we've ceased all non-essential activities," she said. Those activities include live concerts and kids play areas. Gildea is asking patrons to be patient as waiting and lines become more common.  

Some regional farmers markets have delayed opening dates, but a few opened this week. Most organizers are asking patrons to follow guidelines developed by the Centers for Disease Control and the Farmers Market Coalition

Farmers Markets that will be operating this weekend and into the future:

Start dates for other farmers markets:

The city of Pittsburgh says there will be social distancing and safe purchasing requirements in place at city-operated markets. Details of those requirements have not yet been announced

Kiley Koscinski covers city government, policy and how Pittsburghers engage with city services. She also works as a fill-in host for All Things Considered. Kiley has previously served as a producer on The Confluence and Morning Edition.