The Houston Farmers Market received a boost this week with the announcement of a grant obtained by a downtown revitalization group.
USDA Rural Development announced Downtown Houston Inc. received a $30,000 grant under the Rural Business Enterprise Grant to further the market in Houston. Improvements at the market and renovation of the Melba Theatre are part of a detailed plan adopted by the organization, which was recently approved for $350,000 in state tax credits the Missouri Department of Economic Development. The delegation recently received training on administered the tax credits, which were used earlier for development of the Lone Star Plaza and Houston Visitors Center. Those making contributions earn generous tax credits and can deduct the donation on their federal tax returns.
The USDA grant will pay for improvements at property owned north of the Lone Star Plaza, where the Houston Farmers Market meets on Fridays and Saturdays during the growing season. The funds will be used to purchase refrigeration equipment at the building and awnings for the canopy at the plaza. A board was recently established for the farmers market to guide its expansion. A planning meeting was Thursday, March 6.