Downtown Traverse City has made a commitment to Urbanize – surface parking lots have been condensed to strategically placed decks, and the downtown population continues to increase. The popular Farmers Market has outgrown the much-loved seasonal site along the North side of the Boardman River, and the Local Farmers Association is looking to expand and be more inclusive of other local farmers. This Market Hall proposal seeks to address these issues by providing a food-centered program for the following community stakeholders: (1) the Traverse City Farmers Market, (2) “Taste the Local Difference” (a division of the Michigan Land Use Institute) and (3) two other core-businesses that promote the economy for the above two – an Artisan Bakery/Café and a Meal Assembly Store. Based on previous research, the Market Hall proposes to create a core year-round market that is an extension of the existing seasonal Farmers Market that provides fresh local-grown foods and produce to everyone (not just those who can afford it), by becoming a business built by the above stakeholders. The site is chosen along the South side of the river, behind the block of Front Street between Union and Cass. This site is optimal because of its proximity to the existing farmers market (which will be upgraded, but remain intact), and the existence of a valued pass-through from Front Street to the river. The design of the project aims to acknowledge the layers of the downtown area, by adding a more vibrant (food) layer to the back of Front Street, as well as emphasizing the descent to the riverfront, making it a more enjoyable and accessible public space. An attempt will be made to mitigate and repair the existing water runoff into the river (it is currently not a suitable condition). The proposal also promotes the business of food – growing + selling, preparing and eating, by revealing these processes through materials and the pedestrian experience. While the stakeholders have specific programs located within the site, pedestrian activity through and around the Market Hall encourage other sorts of urban vitality – street vendors, push-cart sellers, gatherings, and festivities.