The Tale of Two Markets: People Centric Places – Public Markets

Today, the 2nd Street Market in Dayton and Findlay Market in Cincinnati are among the most visited destinations within their downtown and Main Street ecosystems. These iconic public markets have become engines of entrepreneurship, supporting local food vendors, artisans, and small businesses while creating vibrant community gathering places that reconnect residents and visitors to the urban core. Attendees will learn how public-sector vision, adaptive reuse, strategic partnerships, and market-driven programming transformed obsolete infrastructure into thriving civic and economic assets. The session will explore how public markets can serve as catalysts for entrepreneurship, placemaking, and downtown revitalization, providing communities with a proven model for cultivating local businesses while creating authentic destinations that drive foot traffic and long-term economic growth.