City Of Portland: City Announces Plan For Food Truck Pilot On Eastern Promenade

Portland ME

02 May, 2022

3:35 PM

Description

Press release from the City of Portland: April 30, 2022 "This option was favored by the vast majority of the public that provided public comment," said Interim City Manager West, "and I believe it will be the most effective in balancing the priorities of residents, small business owners, and visitors to the Eastern Promenade." Approximately 10 parking spaces that can accommodate 10 food trucks will be made available at the Cutter Street lot for food truck operations. Food truck owners interested in utilizing one of these spaces will have to apply for a permit. If interest in this space exceeds the number of parking spaces available, permits will be issued by lottery. Permits will be issued at no cost to food truck operators this year (since this is a pilot program), but a permit fee may be implemented in future years. Renewed interest in outdoor dining during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant increase in food truck and customer activity on the Eastern Promenade. While the sense of community and fun this activity introduced was positive, it also resulted in excessive trash, root compaction of park trees and turf, excessive idling and generator use, loss of parking, noise, and other quality-of-life issues. West added, "It is our hope that these changes and this pilot program will help address some of these concerns while also continuing to provide this amenity." This press release was produced by the City of Portland. The views expressed here are the author's own.