Will Columbia's market be like it was in the past?
 Not exactly. Times have changed and people live differently than they did in the past. Over the last decade, the accumulated experience of hundreds of public markets across the country has clarified the opportunities and pitfalls that challenge markets. In the past, most cities and towns used a hands-off policy toward their markets, allowing standholders to self-select and assemble spontaneously. While this often worked in earlier, less competitive economic times, more recently it has led to market closures and other problems which could have been prevented. Experience has shown that today's markets work best when they are carefully and methodically planned and actively managed for success. That way, the managers can help ensure there will not be too many (or too few) standholders serving the various niches. For example, while two butchers might seem excessive for a single market, experience has shown that planning the range and mix of standholders helps attract a larger customer base, establish a more competitive environment, and ensures a stability that might not otherwise be possible. Business planning for the market, as well as careful design of the management structure and promotional positioning, have all become fundamental to the success and sustainability of public markets. This renewed approach to public markets is potentially very useful in that it stresses and develops the idea that markets can become valuable tools in broader community revitalization.
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