The San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild (Ag Guild) recently completed the first phase of their ambitious project, Sunshine Plaza at Brickworks, significantly funded by a $10,000 grant from the San Juan Island Community Foundation. This initiative has helped transform Sunshine Plaza into a dynamic community space that celebrates local culture, agriculture, and art.
Project Milestones and Community Impact
Sunshine Plaza was envisioned to enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of Brickworks Plaza. This included the construction of an outdoor stage named Tokitae Stage, landscaping, covered market stalls, and several artistic installations that symbolize the island’s heritage and the community’s creativity.
Candace Jagel, Director of the Ag Guild, notes, “The improvements to the plaza have brought the Ag Guild and San Juan Island Farmers Market back into the mind of local residents who support local agriculture and the farmers market.” The plaza now hosts a variety of events, from farmers markets to live concerts, fostering a strong sense of community and providing a venue for local performers and a wide variety of vendors.
Expanding Local Agriculture and Arts
The implementation of covered market stalls and a cool room for local agricultural products directly supports the San Juan Island Farmers Market and the San Juan Islands Food Hub. These facilities have attracted new farmer vendors and brought back former vendors, strengthening the local food system. “Energizing the farmers market with the new infrastructure, helping to attract more farmer vendors to the market, and supporting the San Juan Islands Food Hub fulfill our mission to foster a vibrant, resilient and sustainable local food system in San Juan County,” said Jagel.
Additionally, public art installations by local artists have added a cultural richness to the space, making it a point of pride for the community.
Get Engaged!
Your support can help continue to grow and maintain this vital community resource. Call San Juan Island Community Foundation to see how you can contribute at (360)378-1001.
Together, we can sustain this vibrant community hub for generations to come.