Board conditionally approves Pearl Street Market permit, asks for safety and logistics plan

The La Crosse Board of Public Works voted unanimously Jan. 26 to approve a permit allowing the La Crosse Farmers Market Association to close Pearl Street between 2nd and 4th on Fridays from May through October for a weekly Pearl Street Market, but the approval was made contingent on resolving safety and logistics questions.

Sadie Laniero, presenting for the market organizers, told the board the proposal is a vendor-only market focused on produce and artisan foods, with typical vendor fees of about $20–$30 and stall sizes of roughly 10-by-10 feet. Laniero said organizers are seeking sponsorships and partnerships — including with the La Crosse Center and the La Crosse Chamber — to keep fees low and support event needs. "We're hoping to have crossing guards," she said, and described plans for porta-potties, emergency access and volunteer help to manage traffic and deliveries.

The market organizer also offered a one-week hypothetical to illustrate potential economic impact: "$879,300 would be the amount invested back into the local economy if every adult in La Crosse spent just $20 at the farmers market in one week," Laniero said, citing organizers' estimates.

Board members pressed for operational details. A director asked whether the city would cover porta-potties or whether organizers would contract directly; Laniero said vendors would continue to manage their own trash and that discounted set-up through local contacts had been discussed. The mayor and staff raised safety concerns, saying standard barricades may not provide sufficient vehicle protection and that larger signage deployment could require a city vehicle. Staff and the presenter agreed the listed cost estimates could be adjusted once those details were resolved.

A board director moved to approve the permit with conditions focused on ensuring emergency vehicle access, enhanced safety measures, clarifying street and alley closures, and resolving trash removal procedures. The motion, seconded by a council member, passed unanimously. The mayor said city staff would follow up with the presenter and Pearl Street businesses to verify financial and safety arrangements and to coordinate additional meetings.

The board indicated organizers should return with finalized plans or documentation showing how crossing guards, barricade alternatives, delivery/drop-off points and waste removal will be handled before the market proceeds. The permit also excludes operation during Oktoberfest weekend, per the presenter’s request. The board did not set a further formal deadline; staff indicated they will meet with the applicant and affected businesses to complete the outstanding items.

The board moved on to other agenda business after the vote.