As COVID-19 restrictions ease, two Johnson County farmers markets open this weekend
As Johnson County begins to lift more restrictions amid the coronavirus pandemic, two cities will allow customers to walk around and shop at their farmers markets on Saturday.
Like grocery stores, farmers markets were considered essential functions under local stay-at-home orders. But because the markets can draw thousands of visitors crammed together, many cities have postponed them.
Since late last month, Overland Park has been operating its farmers market in a drive-thru format and in a different location, at the Overland Park Convention Center. The city implemented the changes, restricting shoppers to their cars, after many residents complained that the event could lead to more cases of COVID-19.
But now, spokesman Sean Reilly said the city will allow walk-up shopping at that location, 6000 College Blvd., beginning Saturday.
“We understand some people are frustrated with the drive-thru option and others are nervous about the walk-up format. Either way, one group is happy and the other is not,” organizers wrote on the farmers market Facebook page. “No vendor is required to attend just like no shopper has to come. Everyone has to do what they feel is right for them and their families.”
In a typical year, about 80 vendors set up booths at the farmers market in downtown Overland Park. Reilly said the city will not limit the number this weekend, but about 50 vendors are expected. The number of customers won’t be limited, but vendors are encouraged to allow just one family at a time at their booths.
“We’re going by the county regulations,” Reilly said. “Vendors will wear masks. People should social distance and wear masks. Customers should take the steps they feel necessary.”
Lenexa also will open its farmers market on Saturday, after postponing it for several weeks. To start, the city is allowing 15 vendors to sell their goods on the ground level of the parking garage on Lenexa’s civic campus, at 87th Street Parkway and Winchester Street.
“This is an important time to support small businesses and our local food system. Farmers markets offer products at the peak of freshness that travel shorter distances to reach customers and are touched by fewer hands in the process,” Lenexa officials said in a news release.
In Lenexa, the market will only allow one-way foot traffic. The first hour is reserved for at-risk shoppers.
Vendors and shoppers will be required to keep at least six feet of distance, plus they are encouraged to wear masks and follow all social distancing guidelines. Residents should try to shop alone to reduce crowd size.
Even as more events are allowed in Johnson County, health officials are urging residents to stay home as often as possible to help prevent further spread of coronavirus. As of Wednesday afternoon, Johnson County reported 612 cases and 54 deaths.
This story was originally published May 13, 2020 at 5:31 PM.
