A Complement, not a Competitor: How Public Markets Can Support Business Districts in Worcester

Author

Ron M. BarronFollow

Date of Award

5-2016

Degree Type

Research Paper

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Community Development and Planning (CDP)

Department

International Development, Community and Environment

Chief Instructor

Mark Tigan, Ph.D.

Second Reader

Kathryn Madden

Keywords

public markets, farmers markets, entrepreneurship, street vendor, urban economy

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the possible economic and community development impacts of entry-level public markets (e.g. fixed location markets, farmers markets, etc.) on the communities in which they operate. While there is extensive literature around their benefits to vendors, community health and public space, there is comparative little on the interplay between these markets and more traditional brick and mortar businesses. The background and definition of these markets, the basic common characteristics that define them, and some of the benefits they can offer for economic and community development are each explored. It then examines two different markets in two different cities, taking special focus on the interplay between these markets and their brick and mortar counter-parts. Finally, the question of how these lessons might be applied to economic development efforts in the city of Worcester is examined.

Recommended Citation

Barron, Ron M., "A Complement, not a Competitor: How Public Markets Can Support Business Districts in Worcester" (2016). International Development, Community and Environment (IDCE). 60.
https://commons.clarku.edu/idce_masters_papers/60

Worcester

Yes