Barry Benepe, the man who transformed New York City's food landscape with the creation of Greenmarkets, died recently at the age of 96. Benepe's vision was simple: to connect local farmers with city dwellers, providing access to fresh, seasonal produce while supporting regional agriculture. In 1976, he co-founded the first Greenmarket in Union Square, a groundbreaking initiative that quickly gained popularity.
Over the years, the Greenmarket program expanded to include dozens of locations throughout the city, becoming the largest network of farmers' markets in the United States. These markets not only offered a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and other farm products but also served as community hubs, fostering connections between urban residents and rural producers.
Benepe's impact extended beyond the realm of food. The Greenmarkets played a significant role in revitalizing neighborhoods, attracting shoppers and boosting local economies. By providing a platform for farmers to sell their goods directly to consumers, he helped to preserve farmland and promote sustainable agriculture practices. His legacy continues to shape New York City's food culture and serves as a model for other cities seeking to create vibrant and sustainable food systems.
Barry Benepe, Founder of NYC Greenmarkets, Dies at 96
Barry Benepe, the visionary behind New York City's Greenmarkets, has passed away at the age of 96. Benepe's innovative idea brought fresh, farm-grown produce directly to city residents. He established what would become the nation's largest network of farmers' markets. His work not only provided access to healthy food but also revitalized neighborhoods across the five boroughs.