Downtown Overland Park Is Evolving: Farmers’ Market Upgrades

What makes a great neighborhood even better? A place where you gather on Saturday mornings, meet your neighbors, and support local growers. Downtown Overland Park’s beloved Farmers’ Market is getting a major upgrade, and you will notice changes starting now. In this guide, you will see what is being built, where to shop in the meantime, and how these improvements can elevate everyday life downtown. Let’s dive in.

What is changing and why

The City approved a large improvement plan to transform the market pavilion and surrounding public spaces into a more flexible, comfortable destination. Reported plans include a partially enclosed market area for extended-season use, permanent shade and seating, upgraded restrooms, and better utilities for vendors. Public reporting places the total budget at about 33.9 to 34 million dollars after approvals in mid‑2024. For a clear overview of scope and purpose, see the project summaries from The Packer and budget reporting in Ingram’s.

Timeline and what to expect

Construction began after the 2024 market season, with crews mobilizing in December 2024. Public estimates suggest about 18 months of work, with completion targeted for spring to summer 2026. Because construction schedules can change, consider the timeline an estimate and check city updates for the latest. Coverage from The Packer provides the most widely cited schedule details.

Who is delivering the project

City records show agreements for an owner’s representative, design services, and a construction manager at risk. You can view the governing body materials and contract actions in the City’s civic documents portal.

Where to shop in 2025

During construction, the Farmers’ Market has moved for the 2025 season to the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St. The City’s Farmers’ Market page lists the current schedule, vendors, and updates. Before you go, check the official Overland Park Farmers’ Market page for hours and any mid‑season changes.

Getting there and parking

To help with access during construction, the City piloted a free Saturday circulator shuttle between City Hall and downtown market stops in summer 2025. For routes and dates from the pilot, review the City’s shuttle service announcement. Expect the City to post any future parking maps or transit updates on its newsroom and market pages.

New amenities you will notice

Comfort and access

You can look forward to more shade, expanded seating, and improved walkways with better drainage and gentler slopes. Restrooms will be expanded and modernized. These changes aim to make market days more comfortable in all kinds of weather.

Vendor upgrades

Vendors gain additional power and water hookups, including electrical capacity suitable for refrigeration, plus more covered or indoor stalls that reduce weather cancellations. These changes can support a wider variety of products and more consistent operations. The City and press highlight this as a direct response to long‑standing vendor needs, as noted by The Packer’s project overview.

Sustainability features

Planned improvements include roof‑mounted solar panels, EV charging stations, LED or solar‑powered exterior lighting, heat‑reducing pavement strategies, native landscaping, and onsite recycling or composting. Contractors are expected to use locally sourced or recycled materials where practical. These features aim to improve comfort while reducing environmental impact, per The Packer’s coverage.

What this means for nearby homes and businesses

Short term, expect construction impacts like noise, staging areas, and shifting parking patterns near Clock Tower Plaza and adjacent streets. The City has used tools like shuttle service and parking guidance to ease the transition, as shown in the shuttle announcement. Longer term, a year‑round‑capable pavilion and refreshed public spaces are designed to boost regular foot traffic and support events. The market already enjoys strong regional reputation, and the City cites past national recognition as a signal of ongoing interest in the district.

How to make the most of the market now

• Check the official market page before you go for hours and location updates.
• Park once and explore. Pair your market visit with brunch or shopping nearby to support local businesses.
• Bring a small cooler bag. With more vendors offering temperature‑sensitive goods, you will keep items fresh while you stroll.
• Arrive early for popular items. Lines form quickly for seasonal produce and baked goods.
• Be flexible. Temporary layout changes are normal during construction and may shift week to week.

Considering a move near Downtown OP?

Living close to a vibrant market and gathering space can elevate your weekly routine and connect you to the community. As these upgrades roll out, downtown will host more programming, from markets to watch parties and concerts. If you are weighing a home purchase or sale in Overland Park, a thoughtful plan that considers timing, lifestyle needs, and inventory will serve you well. For clarity on neighborhoods, pricing, and timing, connect with The Gamble Group for local guidance tailored to your goals.

FAQs

When will the new pavilion open?

• Public estimates suggest completion in spring to summer 2026, but schedules can change, so monitor updates from The Packer’s coverage and City channels.

Where is the Farmers’ Market during construction in 2025?

• The season is at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St.; confirm hours on the official Farmers’ Market page.

Will the market become year‑round after construction?

• The design supports extended or potentially year‑round operation, but the final calendar will be set by market management; see context in The Packer’s project overview.

What improvements are planned for vendors and shoppers?

• Expect a partially enclosed pavilion, more shade and seating, upgraded restrooms, better accessibility, and expanded power and water hookups, per The Packer.

How is parking and access being handled during construction?

• The City tested a free Saturday shuttle and posts parking guidance as needed; see the shuttle pilot details.

What is the project budget and who is involved?

• Public reporting cites about 33.9 to 34 million dollars, with city agreements in place for design and construction; review budget coverage in Ingram’s and City contracts in the civic documents portal.