Bidding open for renovations to York’s oldest farmers’ market

Bidding is open for general construction, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work at Penn Market, the city’s oldest farmers’ market located in downtown York, the Redevelopment Authority of the City of York (RDA) announced. 

According to a release, renovations will enhance safety, accessibility, and comfort for visitors, residents, and vendors, while preserving the character that has made the market an integral part of the community for generations. 

“The upgrades at Penn Market are designed to preserve its historic charm while creating a welcoming, modern environment that supports local vendors and celebrates the culture of our neighborhood,” Michael Black, RDA board chair, said in a statement. “Penn Market will continue to be a gathering place where neighbors connect, visitors experience the city, and generations of York residents can enjoy this historic space. The RDA is committed to continuing its collaborations with City Council, the Mayor’s Office, and our other community partners and we look forward to building on these relationships and working together to secure funding for upcoming renovations.” 

Planned building improvements Include the following: 

• New electric: Safer wiring and new meters so each vendor can track usage and costs.
• New plumbing: Serving additional sinks, new restrooms, and addressing ongoing 

drainage issues. 

• New heating system: Energy-efficient, safe heating to replace outdated systems.
• New cooking hoods & ventilation: Up-to-code hoods with heated/cooled make-up air 

for improved temperature control. 

• Ceiling fans: Improve air circulation year-round. Please note that central air conditioning 

will not be installed due to the building’s historic structure. 

• Accessibility Upgrades: ADA-compliant restrooms and a handicap-accessible entrance on 

the parking lot side. 

• Exterior repairs: Repointing brick, repairing skylights, and bracing the leaning front 

parapet wall. 

• Doors & windows: Replaced or repaired throughout the building.
• Safety systems: New security and fire alarm system, sprinklers, and lighted exit signs.

“Renovating Penn Market is about preserving a treasured piece of York’s history while ensuring it continues to serve as an economic driver for the neighborhood and the city,” said Blanda Nace, Chief Opportunity Development Officer for the City of York and RDA Executive Director/Secretary. “By supporting the vendors, providing the neighborhood with access to fresh produce and quality goods, and attracting visitors to the WeCo neighborhood and York City, these updates will strengthen small businesses and help keep Penn Market a vibrant hub for the community for generations to come.” 

Separate bids will be received for general construction, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical, per the release. This is a Pennsylvania prevailing wage project. 

Construction is anticipated to begin in Winter 2026 and last approximately 12-18 months, depending on the phasing of construction. It is the goal to keep the market open as much as possible while renovations occur.  

The Redevelopment Authority of the City of York is tasked with eliminating blighted properties in the City of York.