Project for Public Spaces (PPS), "a nonprofit planning, design and educational organization dedicated to helping people create and sustain public spaces that build stronger communities," has chosen Cleveland to host its 8th International Public Markets Conference.

The 3-day event, planned for autumn of 2012, will align with the centennial celebration of the West Side Market. It will bring together over 300 participants including accomplished planners, designers, market managers, and visionary leaders.

PPS Senior Vice President Steve Davies said, "Cleveland should be proud of the longevity of the West Side Market -- one of the few remaining historic public markets in the U.S, and conference participants will also learn a great deal from the region's expanding farmers markets which are sparking revitalization, job growth and healthy living."

The West Side Market has previously received honors from the Travel Channel, Food Network, and Travel and Leisure magazine, to name but a few. It is also on the National Register of Historic Places.

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