To help more people attend Big Rapids Farmers Market events, the city of Big Rapids has partnered with the Mecosta Osceola Transit Authority (MOTA) and Michigan Primary Care Partners to provide free transportation for residents outside city limits in Mecosta and Osceola counties.

“I think this partnership is a great addition to what we already do,” said Josh Pyles, city recreation coordinator and farmers market manager. “We’re always trying to ensure locally grown fruits, vegetables and other great items at our market are available to as many people as possible. The more people who have access to the market, the more our vendors are supported. That’s another goal of ours.”

Riders must schedule their own transportation to and from the market on Fridays and Saturdays. MOTA will provide designated drop-off and pickup locations for each scheduled rider.

According to Jacob Jackson, MOTA marketing and public relations specialist, the idea for this partnership has been in development for some time.

“We’ve been discussing ways to collaborate and transport more people to these events,” Jackson said. “This is a great opportunity to help the city of Big Rapids increase farmers market attendance, raise awareness for Michigan Primary Care Partners’ Rides to Wellness program and allow us to provide another local transportation service.”

While Michigan Primary Care Partners isn’t directly impacted by the partnership, its goal is simple: support the community in a positive way.

“We’ve been part of this community since 1998 and like to support anything we can,” said Jessica Youmans, chief administrator. “We want to see the farmers market grow.”

More information on rides can be found by calling MOTA at 231-796-4896.