Four vendors inside of NewBo City Market in Cedar Rapids have closed permanently since the COVID-19 pandemic. But management at NewBo says they are making some changes to keep the business and area thriving.

KCRG reports that two summer events will be happening at NewBo this year with increased attention being paid to social distancing. You may have noticed large white boxes outlining sections of the lawn at Newbo. The facility's marketing director, Alexandra Olsen, says they are planning on how to make Rock the Block and Meet Me at the Market events happen this summer at NewBo.

Rock the Block is a summer concert series, and Meet Me at the Market is a health event. Olsen told KCRG that after meeting with vendors inside NewBo about what could be done to help them get through these difficult times, they all mentioned that increased foot traffic would help attract customers. Olsen noted that temporary rent relief is also being given.

Olsen told KCRG that she is hoping that by spacing out areas on the lawn for people to come in their own groups, that they will feel safe enough to come out to events held at the market. She said she encourages the public to continue to come out and support small local businesses. No coolers will be allowed on the grounds this year during the events. Tickets and pre-registration will also be required for Rock The Block. Olsen says that information will be coming soon.

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