Established in 1863 by the Verbeke family, the Broad Street Market has been a cherished fixture in Harrisburg’s Midtown neighborhood for over a century. As one of the oldest continuously operating farmers markets in the United States, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
However, tragedy struck on July 10th, 2023, when a devastating fire engulfed the market’s historic building, leaving vendors displaced and the community in shock. In response, the City of Harrisburg swiftly proposed a temporary solution—a tent to house the displaced vendors while plans for reconstruction took shape.
The Sheet Metal Workers Local 19, known for their expertise and commitment to community service, stepped up to the challenge. Led by Jon Dellinger, Mike Ford, James Atti, and Mike Guigley, these skilled craftsmen played a pivotal role in transforming the tent into a functional space ready for vendors to resume their businesses.
Local 19 members installed two 12-foot kitchen exhaust hoods within the tent’s kitchen area. These hoods, essential for maintaining air quality and safety standards in a commercial kitchen, were hung to ensure compliance with regulations and provide a conducive environment for vendors to operate.
In addition to the exhaust hoods, Local 19 members also installed two exhaust fans and a fresh air unit on the tent’s exterior wall. These components, vital for ventilation and climate control, were seamlessly integrated into the temporary space, thanks to the expertise and dedication of the Sheet Metal Workers.
Furthermore, the Central Pennsylvania Training Center played a crucial role in the project by crafting and donating two exhaust duct sleeves to facilitate the safe venting of kitchen fumes through the tent’s exterior wall. This collaboration between the trades ensured that the market’s temporary setup met necessary safety standards and regulations.
Additionally, G.R. Sponaugle and Jeremy Ferree showed their support for the project by fabricating and donating ductwork and accessories for the fresh air unit. Their generosity and expertise contributed to the swift completion of the project, allowing vendors to return to the market and resume their livelihoods as soon as possible.
In the face of adversity, the Sheet Metal Workers Local 19, alongside their partners in the Central Pennsylvania Building Trades and the broader community, exemplified the power of solidarity and collective action. Through their tireless efforts, they not only restored a market but also preserved a piece of Harrisburg’s legacy, ensuring that the Broad Street Market continues to thrive for generations to come.
