FRANKLIN—Construction has started on the much anticipated Farmers’ Market in downtown Franklin on Main Street.

Downtown Franklin Association President Jack Norvell said contractors broke ground on the site Monday.

“Construction started this week and shouldn’t take more than a few weeks to complete,” he said.

Norvell said the structure will be made of wood with a metal roof and concrete floor.

Plans for the 38-foot by 67-foot pavilion include lighting and will be built so that customers can pass through and visit vendors on either side of the market.

Norvell said he’s excited about the new venue.

“I’ve been waiting on a Farmers’ Market in downtown for a long time,” he said. “It will bring a lot of new traffic and revenue to the area, especially during the ‘We Be Jammin’ when people from all over will have a reason to come early, eat at area restaurants and spend more money in downtown Franklin.”

Norvell said he anticipates the market opening sometime in March when the first crop of vegetables are ready. He said that plans for a dedication ceremony are in the works but have not been finalized.

“We will wait until the cold, snow and rain (pass) before setting a date,” he said.

In addition to overseeing construction of the Farmers’ Market, Downtown Franklin Association officials will also decide on a new executive director in the coming weeks. The position was vacated by Dan Howe in November and remains open.

“We will begin meeting to discuss candidates for the position on Jan. 6,” said Norvell.

According to an advertisement announcing the opening of the position, the DFA is looking for candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in marketing or business administration with at least two to three years experience.

The candidate will be expected to work with businesses and government officials.

The candidate will also be required to obtain residence within the corporate limits of the Franklin within 12 months of being hired.

“I’m looking forward to finding a good, well-qualified candidate to fill the position,” Norvell said.