At the Seaport, on the East River, stand two historic structures: the Tin Building and the New Market Building. Both market halls are owned by the public, and both have been empty since 2005, when the Fulton Fish Market was moved to the Bronx after two centuries of vibrant trade in this location.
We propose that both market halls be restored with public and philanthropic funds and dedicated as a new market for sustainably produced food, sold by purveyors and sourced regionally. This civic institution will be a permanent venue to promote sustainable agriculture, strengthen our regional food system, drive rural and urban economic development, incubate small businesses, and teach all New Yorkers how to buy, cook and eat healthy food.
By creating this new public market, we will help define an emerging understanding; that we value food not only for its nourishment, but for how and where it is produced. And because it will emerge in New York City, its impact will be wide.
It will be called New Amsterdam Market. |
