Recurring Open Street Markets
Low-cost programming that gives residents a reason to show up every week.
Expand recurring, low-overhead market and vendor programming into underused streets and plazas — with a permitting path simple enough that a first-time vendor can actually use it.
// the problem
The problem
Some of our most valuable public space is quiet most of the week, and the barrier to becoming a legal small vendor is high enough that people either don't start or operate informally. Both outcomes cost the city.
// the concept
The concept
Build on what already works in Santa Monica's farmers markets by adding recurring, neighborhood-scale market programming in areas that need routine activity — with a genuinely simple vendor onboarding path and a predictable schedule residents can build habits around.
Potential benefits
- Consistent foot traffic supporting nearby permanent businesses
- A low-cost entry point for new small businesses
- More reasons for residents to use public space
- A legal pathway for vendors currently operating informally
How it could work
- Select two or three underused sites with existing permanent businesses nearby
- Set a fixed recurring schedule rather than one-off events
- Simplify vendor permitting into a single short application
- Partner with existing market operators rather than building new city staff capacity
- Track vendor counts, attendance and neighboring business feedback
Challenges and open questions
- Street closures and traffic impacts
- Balancing new vendors against existing brick-and-mortar businesses
- Insurance, health permits and enforcement
- Sustaining attendance past the first few months