The Farmers Market Grant Program will fund a new performance plaza, permanent signage and a resurfacing of the multi-use parking lot at the market location in Valley Court Park. There also will be smaller details added, such as landscaping and more bike racks.

The new work is scheduled to be completed at the end of May 2014. The Downtown Development Authority and the city also will provide matching funds to support the project.

A boost in funding could not have come at a better time, considering the market’s recent anniversary, said Ami Van Antwerp, East Lansing Farmer’s Market team member and city communications coordinator. Because of the increased demand and requests of customers, this year also was the first that the market opened in June instead of July.

“Funding is limited, and we wouldn’t have been able to make these changes without this grant,” Van Antwerp said. “It is a great investment, and we knew it was something that made sense because the market is growing rapidly.”

Some of the products sold at the market include local fruits, vegetables, meats and sauces, as well as a variety of other items. Vendors said the farmers market has proven to be a huge success.

“The upgrade will be a great asset to the market and hopefully will bring in even more customers and vendors to participate,” said Christine Miller, owner of vendor Spartan Country Meats. “I love seeing students, along with the other people throughout the state, that visit the market.”

Faithful customers also have helped Stone Circle Bakehouse flourish at the farmer’s market, owner Kevin Cosgrove said.

“There is a lot of diverse clientele at the East Lansing (Farmer’s) Market, which was very helpful to get my product out there when I was first starting my business,” Cosgrove said. “The market is soon going to become a destination and a permanent fixture for the city of East Lansing.”

The city estimates 1,000 visitors are drawn to Valley Court Park every week, looking for something homegrown to bring back to their families. Environmental biology senior Echo Prafke-Marson said she goes to the market frequently and appreciates having fresh and local products available in the city.

“The produce is always really good at the market, and they always have things that you wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else. I love that the tomatoes actually taste like something,” Prafke-Marson said. “It would be great if they could have it all year.”

The East Lansing Farmer’s Market takes place each Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from June through Oct. 27 in Valley Court Park. Musical performances take place at the market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.