FOLEY, Ala. — The Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market now has an additional $100,000, thanks to a Rural Business Enterprise Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

During its regular meeting last week, the Foley City Council voted to accept the grant.

In a letter to Mayor John Koniar, U.S.D.A. State Director Ronald W. Davis explained that the funds were actually designated on Dec. 26.

Construction began last summer on the covered structure that provides a place for local farmers, food artisans and fishermen to share their bounty with residents looking for fresh food that is locally grown, raised or caught. A large portion of the $750,000-$900,000 project was funded by B.P. as part of the Deepwater Horizon settlement.

The facility launched in October with more than 250 visitors descending on the new Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market in Foley for its grand opening. The market debuted with 27 vendors filling all but three available booths in the new structure.

While the market officially opened at 3 p.m. that day, eager customers began wandering in as early as 1:30. By the 4 p.m. ribbon cutting with South Baldwin Chambe3r of Commerce, the crowd was thick with visitors shopping for local organic beef, honey, seafood, soft pretzels and vegetables, among other items. With the launch, the market was open three days per week during its fall season, which lasted into November.

Shortly after opening, the market adjusted its operating hours. Then in December, the city approved the addition of 10 additional tents alongside the main structure. This allowed space needed for more vendors at the growing venture. But that’s not the only expansion project for the market. According to Myles Bishop, construction project director, work is ongoing the second permanent structure, which will allow for more sophisticated equipment.

In January, shoppers had some background music added as Foley singer/songwriter Christina Christian to the stage for one day.

This U.S.R.D.A. grant is the latest success of the city in seeking funding for the market.

According to the market’s website, the facility is currently open 9 a.m.-2 p.m. each Saturday during its winter season. The spring season will start on Tuesday, March 25. At that time, operating hours will be 2-6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. each Saturday.