Doug Beech wanted to complete a major community project during 2011-2012, his year as president of the Rotary club of Ankeny. The feasibility of constructing an open air, bike trail-head building which could be used for multiple events in Ankeny including the farmers market became the project of choice. Initial drawings were developed, and a goal to raise 1.5 million dollars were put in motion. Eventually, the final plans were to include two pavilions and rest room facilities and a groundbreaking ceremony was held on May 17, 2024. But by then the fundraising goal had to be increased to 2.1 million dollars.
The first pavilion was completed in 2015 and the first farmer's market was held in the Ankeny Market Pavillion on May 21, 2016.
The second pavilion was completed in late 2017 and a ribbon cutting was held on June 6, 2018.
In recognition of the10th anniversary of the first farmers market, the Rotary Club of Ankeny hosted a celebration at the AMP on October 25th. Speakers included Todd Wehr, Event Chairman, Derek Lord, Ankeny Economic Development Director, Dennis Albaugh, Doug Beech, past Rotary President, Terry peter AMP Fundraiser Chairman. In conjunction with this event, sponsorships were obtained and commemorative T-shirts were and are still being sold. So far, over $19,000 has been raised. It is planned for the net to be utilized for the purchase for additional picnic tables, benches and trash receptacles in the AMP and Uptown area.
