In addition to the farm, the village marketplace is anticipated to be another popular gathering place and a vital part of the sustainable community. This commercial center promises to be a lively mix of shops, restaurants, cafés, services, galleries, studios and urban-style loft and condominium residences — and possibly a boutique hotel and offices. All oriented around a main public square or plaza.

The village marketplace, like the farm, is an idea as ancient as human civilization itself — beginning with the Greek agora and evolving very little over the centuries. After all, it’s difficult to improve on a model that is compact, walkable, and charming in its scale and diversity.

The marketplace is expected to add a welcome dimension to The Canyons experience — socially and economically. And for the dad who suddenly discovers that the milk carton is empty, it will be a real lifesaver.