First look at what they're planning at the new Mill Market (8 images)

City Council got its first peek this week at conceptual renderings for the new Mill Market, to be built in the old Greyhound Canada/Union Cab building at 73 Brock Street.

The city acquired the structure last year for $395,000.

It currently provides leased space for the popular market on Canal Drive.

That five-year lease expires on June 30, 2024.

"Representatives from the market have been part of the design phase for the Brock Street building and both the board and vendors are excited to move to the future location," says Tom Vair, the city's deputy chief administrative officer for community development and enterprise services.

Mill Market is a not-for-profit organization incorporated on June 10, 2019, governed by its own elected board of directors with both vendor and community members.

The city project is expected to cost. $2.9 million.

$2.5 millon is being sought from the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program ($1,750,000 million) and Canada Community Revitalization Fund ($750,000).

"The market has also set aside $25,000 in a reserve account from its operations to contribute towards the project," Vair says.

"It should be acknowledged this is impressive to achieve while operating during the pandemic, which has seen various restrictions including the number of patrons that are allowed to attend the market at any one time."

"The relocation of the Mill Market adjacent to the downtown plaza will provide a positive and complementary contribution to the success of both operations. It is anticipated that these projects will provide positive benefits to the community for years to come," Vair said in a letter to Mayor Christian Provenzano and councillors.