CLEVELAND (WJW) – The city of Cleveland has announced that it has officially transferred the management and operation of the West Side Market to Cleveland Public Market Corporation.

The Cleveland Public Market Corporation is an independent non-profit created by Mayor Justin Bibb’s administration, according to a press release from the corporation.

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“West Side Market is one of our city’s jewels and transitioning to non-profit management will help with more efficient management operations, fundraising, and connecting the West Side Market to our neighborhoods,” Bibb said.

According to the release, the CPMC will align the West Side Market’s operating model with nationwide best practices for public markets.

“City Council understands the important role West Side Market has and is excited for the Market to play an even bigger role in the lives of Clevelanders across the City in the future,” Council President Blaine Griffin said. “We look forward to working with CPMC to connect our residents to the Market.”

The city plans to have ownership of the Market’s land facilities under the terms of management agreement signed between CPMC and the city of Cleveland.

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CPMC will now manage the market’s operation, oversee renovations and upgrades, create and market new public programs and fundraise for capital projects.

“For years I, and other community stakeholders, have been advocating for a new management model at the West Side Market; a model that honors the history of this Cleveland icon, the wellbeing of its current vendors, and the future vision of a vibrant marketplace,” Ward 3 Councilman and CPMC Board Member Kerry McCormack said. “I am thankful that Mayor Bibb listened to the community and acted quickly on these critical reforms.”

According to the release, CPMC will also execute the Market’s master plan, which was developed in partnership with  Market merchants, Ohio City, Inc., Cleveland City officials and community leaders.

“I’m excited about the passionate team we’ve brought on to set the foundation for this next chapter for West Side Market,” said Rosemary Mudry, who joined the non-profit in January 2024 as its first executive director. “We’re going to be nimble and responsive to the Market’s needs. We’re all looking forward to learning a great deal in the coming months as we work with the City, merchants, and customers.”

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Wednesday is the first open West Side Market day under new management.

“Vendors are feeling hopeful about the future for West Side Market,” said Don Whitaker, President of the United West Side Market Tenant’s Association. “We know change might be a little bumpy, but we all feel confident non-profit management will be better for our businesses and the Market.”

Click here for career and volunteer opportunities at the West Side Market.

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