The Anacortes Farmers Market is getting cozier this season.

Organizers are shutting down R Avenue between Sixth and Seventh streets to create a more compact selling area.

“It gives more of a cohesive feel to the market. The customers seem to really enjoy it,” said Keri Knapp, market manager.

The market got the city’s OK to shut down the street last month. It plans to continue for the rest of the season, which is through mid-October.

“It’s changed the whole feel of the market,” Knapp said.

In another change, each week from 10 a.m. to noon different staff members are available to answer questions and provide information.

Planned visits: Aug. 9, Anacortes Police Department; Aug. 16, Parks and Recreation, Forest Lands; Aug. 23, Building Department; Aug. 30, Anacortes Museum; Sept. 6, Water Treatment Plant; Sept. 13, Finance Department; Sept. 20, mayor and Human Resources; and Sept. 27, Anacortes Public Library.

Knapp said the market is off to a good start this year.

“(The growing season) is coming a little bit late but it seems to be picking up now. The produce is rolling in and that’s great to see,” she said.

Gov. Chris Gregoire proclaimed Aug. 3-9 Washington State Farmers Market Week, a time to recognize the benefits of farmers markets to Washington residents.

In honor of the week, Knapp said they are challenging shoppers to buy as much as they can from local farmers.

Market hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays through mid-October. Visit http://www.anacortesfarmersmarket.org.