A new study is exploring whether the Benton Harbor Fruit Market could become home to a year-round local produce marketplace aimed at supporting Southwest Michigan farmers while helping residents have better access to fresh produce.
The United Way of Southwest Michigan is conducting the study through its Be Healthy Berrien initiative and in partnership with the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission. Be Healthy Berrien Director Dawn Marie Smith tells us this is merely a feasibility study.
“The study is assessing how we can build or potentially build — this is just a study, so nothing is being built — a more connected, farmer-centered model that creates linkages between farmers and the infrastructure within the food system,” Smith said.
Smith says the study is being done at a time when many Southwest Michigan farmers face uncertainty finding reliable buyers for their crops and while many residents continue to struggle with access.
So, are they looking at starting some kind of farmers market at the Benton Harbor Fruit Market?
“We don’t foresee it being a complete remodel. It’s more of what’s the best concept for this space and what are the components and how do we potentially look at that for the future to build that out.”
The new study, being done with consulting firm New Venture Advisors, came of a listening session co-hosted by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development back in March. Smith says the study will look at several considerations, including food hub operations, infrastructure needs, workforce, food partnerships, and financial sustainability.
Results are expected in the first quarter of 2027. When all is done, Smith says the surrounding community will have to determine if the year-round local produce marketplace is a project it wants to pursue.
