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Market Square Vendors Stay Despite Uncertain Future

Market Square Vendors Stay Despite Uncertain Future
Market Square Vendors Stay Despite Uncertain Future
Posted at 6:27 PM, May 16, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-16 14:51:19-04

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Last year, our "Building Tallahassee" series took a closer look at development at market square. With news of two more businesses closing, WTXL went back to the area to see how things have changed since our last report.

You may remember Armie Corker. She's been selling fresh produce from Grady County, Ga. at Market Square since 1979.

"It was just my second home, seems like, and it's been a very good investment for me during those years," said Corker.

That was in may 2016. A year later, she's still there, but this time, there's no one around.

Since our last report, several stores aren't here anymore. On one block alone, "Lofty Pursuits" and "Honeytree Natural Foods" have moved. The owner of "the Bloom Room" retired.

A few days ago, "Sidecar Gastrobar" and "Kitcho Japanese Restaurant" closed, though no one here can give us an official reason why. Businesses who have stayed here say those who have left have gone for their own reasons and not because a developer has forced them out.

Connie's Hams has been a staple at Market Square for more than 30 years. The business says it's not going anywhere.

"The developers have not pushed anyone out," said Reynold Arrington. "In fact, they've guaranteed places for these businesses to continue to operate."

But what does the future hold? Leon Capital Group bought Market Square last year but since then, very little has been done.

"Folks have shown up and taken some samples and done some work around here to make it look like something's happening, but nothing ever does," said Arrington.

In the meantime, they're open for business waiting for plans to get going.

We've reached out to Leon Capital Group to learn more about its plans for market square. WTXL is waiting to hear back.