Norton Saddened by Tragic Fire at Eastern Market (4/30/07)
Norton Saddened by Tragic Fire at Eastern Market, a Favorite Place,
Looking into Federal Funding for Rapid Renovation
April 30, 2007
Washington, DC--Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), a 30-year resident of Capitol Hill, today said that she was devastated to learn of the major overnight fire at the Eastern Market, but said that she would work with city officials to see what federal funding is available to help rebuild the historic market. Norton said, "My visiting Eastern Market every Saturday is as routine as my going to work on Mondays. It's a place where I can talk with constituents about their concerns and issues of the day. I see the Market as valuable as any mall because of the unique goods that vendors and merchants sell." She said that shopping for fresh produce and meats, and buying the arts and crafts, jewelry and distinctive items is a way of life for Capitol Hill residents and members of Congress alike, who make their D.C. homes around Eastern Market. Norton said that the one-of-a-kind 19th century structure also makes Eastern Market a popular attraction for visitors to the nation's capital from around the region and across the country.
"I will do all that I can to work with the District to see that merchants are able to continue to provide their goods to the masses of people who frequent Eastern Market and earn a living," Norton said. "It will take ingenuity, but I am optimistic that members of Congress will see the value in assuring that this landmark and economic mainstay will be able to return to normal business as soon as possible."