For the past twenty plus years, Tuscaloosa farmers have gathered to sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats from the same place.
City officials want them to set up shop in a new facility this year.
"The building they were using is further down the road and not as nice of a facility. The city has created this incredible venue for our farmers market," said Christy Bobo, manager for the River Market.
The six-thousand square foot river market has brick siding, overhead lighting, and enough room for 20 pickup trucks. However, some members of the Tuscaloosa truck growers association are skeptical.
"It's been a lot of uncertainty. City council has put a very nice building down there. But a lot of it is that people don't like change," said Neal Hargle, supporter of the Tuscaloosa farmers.
Some farmers are concerned there will not be enough room to pull their trucks into the bays, and that the parking lot is too narrow for their customers. City officials acknowledged the concerns and made changes.
"It's actually good that we're back here so you can see that there's enough room for them to pull up from the parking lot and to load into these docking areas. There's actually enough space in these areas for two full sized trucks to pull up side by side," said Bobo.
Andrea Mabry is with the Homegrown Alabama Farmers Market. She say it's important to get everyone on the same page for the sake of Tuscaloosa's economy.
"When you're supporting locally grown food, you're supporting your local economy, so there's that direct impact of funneling money back into your state," said Mabry.
Neal Hargle admits it's been an uphill battle. But, of the 60 plus farmers in the truck growers association, he majority of them are coming around.
"A lot of farmers are starting to get on board and are really looking forward to it now. There was just so much uncertainty to it, and that was the biggest thing that was going on. The farmers have been able to go down there and see that you're able to get some stuff in there. It may be a little snug but the city has assured them they'll be able to back their trucks in there," said Hargle.
He says there are still some farmers digging in their heels. Even if they choose not to come this spring city council made it clear the farmers will always be welcome.
