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Expansion of market in Ashland more likely ASHLAND -- An agreement with the Ashland Christian Fellowship should make it possible for the Rogue Valley Growers and Crafters Market to expand its Tuesday farmer's market in Ashland. Once approved by the Planning Commission, the market will move from under the viaduct on Water Street to the church parking lot at Oak and Hersey streets. "It's a great spot that gives us plenty of growing room, and it's a real nice setting," said market manager Janet Bierbower. Though the market will lose its Main Street visibility, Bierbower says, it will gain needed room for booths and customer parking. She estimates the location can accommodate 80 sellers at the height of the season. In addition to the convenience of shopping for fresh produce right outside his door, assistant pastor Dave Swaney says the market could change the church's image as well. "It's an opportunity for us to show people we're not crazy right-wing NRA zealots," said Swaney. "We're glad to let them have it." Market organizers recently applied to the city to close a portion of Water Street to accommodate more sellers. Opposition from neighboring business owners over parking prompted the market to look at alternative locations that would promote harmony with their neighbors. The new request to use the church parking lot goes before the commission April 11. The market will open for the season April 4 on Water Street. In Medford, the Thursday market opens on the east side of the Emporium building March 30. The Jacksonville market opens Saturday, May 6, on C Street next to the Jacksonville Museum. Today's Edition : News | Sports | Business | Weather | Tempo | Classifieds Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 2000, Medford, Oregon USA