GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) - Construction has officially begun on the highly anticipated Green Bay Public Market following a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday. The $12.5 million project is expected to attract about one million visitors annually and drive over $100 million in nearby development, including housing, commercial spaces, parking, and pedestrian-friendly areas. The market will anchor Resch Square, a block bordered by Broadway, Dousman, Chestnut, and Hubbard streets, serving as a focal point for the Broadway District and downtown's west side. Midwest retailer Meijer to hold a new baby recycling event The development's design draws inspiration from iconic public markets such as La Boqueria in Barcelona, Pike Place Market in Seattle, and Milwaukee's Public Market. Streetscaping, lighting, and other visual enhancements will extend throughout the Broadway District, with the goal of reconnecting neighborhoods and bringing together residents, visitors, and business owners. "This is a significant investment in our community," said Brian Johnson, CEO and president of On Broadway. The market will feature at least 20 vendors offering locally sourced products across a range of industries. Given the metro area's population of over 320,000 and six million annual tourists, the Green Bay Public Market is expected to become a major destination and spark further residential and commercial growth in the area. Wisconsin manufacturing plant to close in early 2025, laying off over 110 workers "Our overall goal for this project is to see around 20 tenants," Johnson said. "Right now, we have about a dozen. There are others who are interested, but sometimes they're not the right fit. We want to fill the gaps. You need a fishmonger, a meat producer, a baker—key elements for any public market. We'll leave a space empty if we're not achieving the exact balance we want." Officials initially hoped to open the market in time for the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay but now anticipate a late spring or early summer 2025 debut.