WYOMING, Mich. (WOOD) — Wyoming city officials broke ground Tuesday on the future site of Godwin Mercado.

The 6,000-square-foot venue is next to the former General Motors stamping plant on 36th Street near Buchanan Avenue.

“This can be a farmers market, an artisan market. It can be a place for graduation parties, wedding receptions,” said John Shay, Wyoming city manager. “And this in conjunction with our city center project, where we are really trying to create a downtown pedestrian-friendly area in the city, I think this is just going to provide that catalyst and the momentum to achieve that vision.”

The project will cost roughly $6 million, with both private and public funding supporting the new site. The name, Godwin Mercado, recognizes the diverse community the city of Wyoming hosts.

“About 20% to 25% of our population is Hispanic and this is really meant to welcome all of Wyoming and all of the region here to enjoy what this marketplace will bring,” Shay said.

Construction continues across the street as well, as Corewell Health works in conjunction with partners Benteler Corporate and Gelock Heavy Movers, Inc. to help transform the vacant lots into a thriving business with high-paying jobs.