FLINT, MI—A new demonstration kitchen, trolley rides, partnerships, patio and a delivery service were unveiled at the Flint Farmers’ Market on Tuesday, June 4.

The demonstration kitchen, a fully functional commercial space, was remodeled with funding provided by ELGA Credit Union. Nutritional classes put on by several of the market’s community partners will take place in the new kitchen.

The space may also be rented for private cooking classes and small events.

“We are so excited to unveil our new and improved kitchen with the support of ELGA Credit Union,” Flint Farmers’ Market Manager Karianne Martus said.

New patio

The market also unveiled its new Pavilion Patio at its west end outdoor area. The section of pavilion has been remodeled to make room for food trucks, which will set up every day, and the Flint Handmade Guild Arts and Crafts Street Fair which will be held every Saturday.

The new space includes picnic tables, indoor grass carpet and patio-themed decorations. The Pavilion Patio is sponsored by Health Alliance Plan.

The market also announced the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is brining the MTA Flint Trolley back. The trolley will provide rides to the Flint Farmers’ Market every 15 minutes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

“As a longtime friend of the market, MTA has been working to find solutions to parking challenges created by our now bustling downtown,” MTA General Manager, Ed Benning, said. “Today we announce that the MTA Flint Trolley has returned.”

Residents interested in riding the trolley can be picked up at the following sites: University of Michigan-Flint “S” Lot, Northbank Center, Churchhills, Flint Farmers’ Market, Third Street and Wallenberg, Saginaw and Second streets, University of Michigan-Flint Pavilion and Soggy Bottom Bar.

Servicing the Crim

This year, for the first time, the Flint Farmers’ Market will be open during Crim Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 23. The Farmers’ Market will be closed on Crim Saturday, Aug. 24.

"We are so excited to have the opportunity to showcase our great Farmers’ Market to people coming to the Crim Expo on Thursday and Friday this year,” Crim Race Director Andy Younger said. “We are also thrilled to be able to offer additional parking spaces on race day.”

Discounts and specials will be offered to racers who show registration on Thursday, Aug. 22 and Friday, Aug. 23. The market will host live music and cooking demonstrations throughout Friday.

Launching new pick-up and delivery service

In addition, the market announced its new online order, pick-up and delivery service. The Upick Grocery Delivery Service is a delivery system created by Brent Diggs Jr.

“I want to take on this platform to let the community know how important it is to shop local from the farm to table products," he said.

The program is set to test start in June and will be fully available for service by July.