As a result of a photo tweeted out over the weekend of a crowded Brentwood Farmers Market,  L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti is suspending all outdoor markets in the city of Los Angeles until organizers can show  concrete plans to keep both customers and vendors safe.

“This past weekend, some of our farmers markets became much too crowded,” Garcetti said at a news conference yesterday. “As much as we love them, we just cannot take any chances with this virus. I don’t want to have the closing of the farmers markets to result in even bigger crowds at our grocery stores. I’m going to require that all farmers markets submit plans immediately to our city’s Bureau of Street Services that enforce physical distancing and ensure safe operations — one entrance, one exit.  We want people to be able to eat well and get access to food, but we don’t want to risk the spread of this disease.”

The four city of Santa Monica Farmers markets, including the historic Wednesday market that started it all,  are not subject to the suspension ordered by the mayor and will remain open. Safety and distancing plans were already instituted at the Santa Monica markets weeks ago, but it’s advisable to check their social media before visiting to be aware of any changes.

Culver City voluntarily shut down its market three weeks ago and will  reopen today after the city of Culver City approved strict safety protocols that include hand washing stations.

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