Tupelo officials are gearing up for the grand opening of a multipurpose outdoor facility, which will serve as home to the city’s growing farmer’s market.
The Depot, located at 208 North Front Street, is a $2.1 million project funded by the City of Tupelo and Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau. Designed by architect Chris Root of Tek1 Studio and constructed by Master Craft Builders, the venue is named to reflect Tupelo’s train history and its location by the railroad tracks. The structure includes a center cupola replicating the shape atop Tupelo’s original train depot.
Mayor Todd Jordan said that while The Depot will be perfect for the farmer’s market, it will also be used for other events. The facility has a stage for live music, restrooms, tables, and chairs. Parking beside the facility on Front Street is large enough for not only visitors but also for food trucks to set up in.
“Our vision to provide a state-of-the-art, multipurpose outdoor facility for downtown Tupelo has come to fruition,” Jordan said. “I am pleased with the result and look forward to sharing this beautiful venue with our citizens and visitors. This development will contribute to the economic vitality of our downtown and serve not only as a venue for Tupelo Farmers Market but also for other events, live music, and activities.”
Lucia Randle, executive director of the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association, echoed Jordan’s excitement for The Depot and said it’s a product of listening to residents on their desires for the downtown area.
“Watching the development of The Depot from conception to completion has been so exciting,” Randle said. “We needed a more convenient and visible location for Tupelo Farmers Market, and this central location of the new facility will elevate the experience for our patrons and vendors.
“In addition to a new home for the farmers market, The Depot will serve many other purposes, including a wonderful place for live music. We have heard from our citizens the desire for a downtown music venue. This facility fulfills that need and positions downtown Tupelo for an enhanced music experience.”
The Depot will open to the public on Friday, May 2, at 5:30 p.m. Live music to celebrate the ribbon-cutting will go from 6 to 8 p.m. with food trucks on site. Those present will include Jordan, members of the Tupelo City Council, Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau, Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association, Tek1 Studio, Master Craft Builders, and others who made the project happen.
