CINCINNATI – Findlay Market is considered the Gold Standard when it comes to Public Spaces in America according to the American Planning Association (APA). The organization announced Monday that Findlay Market has been named one of five Great Public Spaces on their annual “Great Places in America” list for 2016. 

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As part of National Community Planning Month, APA’s Great Places in America program recognizes streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces in the United States demonstrating exceptional character, quality, and planning—attributes that enrich communities, facilitate economic growth, and inspire others around the country. The Great Neighborhoods, Great Streets, and Great Public Spaces of 2016 are places that are unique and exemplary in their amenities and infrastructure, cultural identity, and use of sustainable and innovative practices.

“Findlay Market is a historically significant staple in our City,” said Mayor John Cranley. “It is not only a vital source for fresh food but it has also served as a launching pad for local entrepreneurs.  Findlay Market is indicative of the diversity and tradition that Cincinnati values and it truly is one of the greatest public spaces in America.”

There are eight characteristics that a space needs to embody in order to be considered for the award: 1.) Promotes human contact and social activities, 2.) Is safe, welcoming, and accommodating for all users, 3.) Has design and architectural features that are visually interesting, 4.) Promotes community involvement, 5.) Reflects the local culture or history, 6.) Relates well to bordering uses, 7.) Is well maintained, and 8.) Has a unique or special character.

"Public marketplaces such as Findlay Market serve as more than just a place to buy food and groceries. They are the center of social life for a community,” said City Manager Harry Black. “In many ways the history of Findlay Market tells the story of Over-the-Rhine. The resurgence of this historic neighborhood is reflected in the longstanding character of this market.”

Findlay Market is honored to receive the award. Findlay Market is the only surviving municipal market house of the nine public markets operating in Cincinnati in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The market house is built on land donated to the City of Cincinnati by the estate of General James Findlay and Jane Irwin Findlay.  It is home to 42 full time individual merchants and more than 50 additional outdoor vendors and farmers on Saturdays and Sundays. 

In addition to being a place to buy fresh foods, Findlay Market prides itself on being a public gathering space that encourages community interaction across socio-economic boundaries. The accessible quality food and welcoming atmosphere is a regional attraction that draws regulars and visitors alike and continues to be a hub of social activity.

“The Department of City Planning nominated Findlay Market for the Great Places in America Award based on its long history, connectivity, diversity, and its ability to bring a community together," said Charles C. Graves, III, director of City Planning for the City of Cincinnati. "For its role in driving urban neighborhood revitalization and serving as the heart of a community, Findlay Market is a natural choice as a great public space designee.”

Findlay Market officially received the award Friday, October 14 at the market. An event, open to the public, took place in the Farmers Market Farm Shed, with speakers from Findlay Market, the City of Cincinnati, and the American Planning Association, complete with food and drinks from the market.