Merchants in Williamsburg facing eviction have been informed their location is safe until June 2008.

The Economic Development Corporation had attempted to buy out the merchants at La Marqueta in March, saying the market was not profitable. The merchants contacted local politicians in an effort to stay put.

The city and business owners are currently exploring three options for the market.

The first option would rent out the entire space at the market. As of right now, only half is currently being used.

Another plan is for the city and state to provide financial aid to help defray the annual expenses of the market.

The last option would destroy the current structure and temporarily relocate the merchants. The city would then use the space to create affordable housing. Upon completion of the reconstruction, the merchants would be able to move back and situate themselves on the ground floor of the building.