Fort Smith Farmers Market to Benefit from New Solar Canopy

Construction is set to commence this October on a $1.45 million solar canopy at 215 Garrison Avenue in downtown Fort Smith.

This 340-kilowatt structure will provide shade and cover for the Fort Smith Farmers Market, enhancing the experience for vendors and visitors alike.

Joshua Robertson, the city's Director of Citizen and City Services, detailed that the canopy will stand 14 feet tall, covering two central rows of parking.

The city is funding the materials through its general fund and anticipates benefiting from a 30% federal investment tax credit.

Efforts will be made to minimize disruption to the market, which operates every Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon, March through December.

With approximately 70 vendors, the market is a vital community hub.

Once operational, the canopy is expected to generate around 500,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.

The energy produced will be sold back to the grid at 5.5 cents per kilowatt-hour, covering maintenance and insurance costs.

Entegrity and OG&E are collaborating with the city on this project.

Robertson emphasized the project's multifaceted benefits, stating, "The canopy will give farmers and shoppers welcome shade during hot market days, provide covered parking for residents and visitors, and add a striking new modern feature that integrates seamlessly into Fort Smith’s historic downtown."

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Fort Smith Board of Directors, who approved several solar projects in September 2024.

These projects are projected to generate over 17 million kilowatt-hours annually, resulting in over $100,000 in net savings each year and $3.5 million in savings over the lifespan of the solar arrays.

Other approved projects include a 35-acre large-scale solar array in Logan County, expected to generate at least 11 million kilowatt-hours per year, and a 15-acre array in Franklin County, anticipated to produce at least 4 million kilowatt-hours annually.

These initiatives underscore Fort Smith's commitment to sustainability and community enhancement.