Erie City Council approves Bayfront Market House project

Erie City Council approves the Bayfront Market House project, an important step forward for strengthening our region’s tourism economy and enhancing the visitor experience.

The unanimous vote earlier this week clears the way for this $14 million, year‑round destination featuring local shops, food, entertainment, and community experiences on our beautiful bayfront. The Market House project will significantly enhance the continued development of Erie’s waterfront, provide benefits to residents, and further strengthen Erie’s position as a premier Great Lakes destination. 

Gus Pine, Erie Events’ executive director, said after council’s vote that “we will look to begin the construction phase immediately” regarding the market house, which is planned just south of the Bayfront Convention Center on the city’s west bayfront. 

The market house would feature various Erie-based products; entertainment; and occasional large farmer's markets, among other offerings. The project has received a $9.5 million state funding commitment from Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration, and it could be completed as soon as 2027. 

"This development is a significant investment in our waterfront and our community,” Pine said. “The market house will be a vibrant, year-round destination that creates economic opportunity, enhances public access to the bayfront, and contributes to the continued growth of our city.”