The Harbor District Market will get a major jump-start from the City of Washington as the Washington City Council voted unanimously last week to provide $85,000 for the market to upgrade its electrical system.

“The City of Washington and the Washington Harbor District Alliance have had a successful partnership for many years, and we are so appreciative the city will make a one-time contribution of $85,000 so the Harbor District Market can make capital improvements to help finish the first phase of the market,” Washington Harbor District Alliance Board President Chris Furlough wrote in a press release.

In the short term, the electrical upgrades will offer more opportunities for vendors who need more power for freezers and coolers. In the long term, a greater electrical load will also make it possible to eventually install a HVAC system and an elevator to make the second floor handicap accessible.

“We’re planning for the future when we’re doing that,” said WHDA Executive Director Meg Howdy.

Overall, the market is a $1.3 million project. A startup grant from North Carolina’s Department of Commerce for $100,000 and a $129, 843 grant from the Tobacco Trust Fund Commission, along with donations from local businesses and individuals, allowed WHDA to begin phase 1 of the project.

To finish phase 1, further capital improvements include electrical upgrades, HVAC, brick repointing and a fire-suppression system. Phase two will include an elevator, construction on the second floor to create a training and education center, expanded exhibit space and a certified kitchen.

For the city, the WHDA is a community partner that regularly receives financial support at budget time. According to City Manager Jonathan Russell, the decision to allocate funds for the electrical system comes from a desire to promote economic development in the city.

“I think it’s exceeded all expectations as far as its success,” Russell said. “I think it’s an economic engine for downtown, but  also the city overall. It’s important to support that. It helps local entrepreneurs, people that are interested in weekly or daily sales. It’s an economic engine that benefits the city, county and region.”