For Immediate Release
May. 4, 2010, 11:28 a.m.
Bistro Furniture To Come To Springer Market Square
Portable Chairs, Tables & Umbrellas Will Make Square More Inviting
As of this weekend, portable bistro tables, chairs and green umbrellas will be added to Springer Market Square inviting Kingstonians and visitors to bask in the bustle and excitement of this historic space seven days a week - including on Kingston Public Market days on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays (Antique Market).
"We, at the Kingston Public Market Vendors Association are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the proposed market augmentations. We feel the addition of the furniture and other beautifications, strategically placed as to not interfere with sales or customer accessibility and safety, will enhance the function of the marketplace on both market and non-market days. Hopefully this can be achieved with minimal effort and coordination," says baker Shawn Hill, 2010 Chairman of the KPMVA. The group was consulted on the addition of portable furniture and other items, such as bicycle racks, recycling receptacles, benches, new planters and some new permanent benches and picnic sets.
Kingston has the oldest continuously-running outdoor public market in North America and the Kingston Public Market Vendors are champions of the local food movement.
"The idea is to have furniture that would allow people to customize the space, as is done in plazas and piazzas all over Europe and in many cities in North America. If you want to sit by the fountain or move out of the sun to enjoy a snack, you can do so. Starting in June, come and enjoy the magic of our historic market in a new way," says John Johnson, Manager of Facilities. The addition of the furniture is made possible through funding from the provincial government and the City.
The Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee was also consulted on the choice of furniture and made recommendations regarding the positioning of vendors to maintain clear pathways for wheelchairs and scooters, especially around the access ramp in the Square's North Courtyard (off Brock Street), which leads down to the public restrooms and lockers (bring your own lock).
The black enamel-and-steel tables and the scissor-form chairs will allow market patrons to make themselves comfortable around the edges of the Square - and even on Market Street, which will be closed on Saturdays and Sundays from mid-June until November.
Setting up, supervising and taking down the 26 bistro tables, 92 chairs and 35 umbrellas will create jobs for those overseeing the Square's furniture.
In addition to the portable furniture, four fixed picnic and additional bike racks will be added for the enjoyment of those visiting the Square throughout the year.
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Media contact information:
Cindie Ashton, Communications Officer 613-546-4291, ext. 3116 (cell 329-3462). Or call the City of Kingston's media hotline at 613-546-4291, ext. 2300.
