I received word over the weekend that after Friday, September 30, there will not be ANY food service on Fountain Square! I am incredulous at this news, which I am told came from 3CDC, and working to find out more.
The only suggested rationale for this policy change I have heard so far is that “some people complained that the food tents make the square look bad.” How this stacks up versus the vitality food vendors contribute to Fountain Square and its many activities that draw people to our city’s downtown core escapes me. I am hoping the limited information currently in my possession does not tell the whole story.
Feel free to add your questions in the comments section to these that already have me scratching my head: 1) Does the prohibition of food service apply only to full-time vendors, or will food service be allowed on Fountain Square for special events? 2) Does this new policy bar beverage vendors as well? (If not, isn’t it sketchy to offer alcohol for Fountain Square events without having food readily available as well?) 3) Does this mean no coffee or hot chocolate vendors will be permitted on Ft. Square while the ice-skating rink is up this winter? 4) Does this mean the Strauss + Troy Tuesday Market on the Square will not be back next summer?
I don’t doubt my source, nor do I wish to be unnecessarily alarmist. I will update this story as I (or others) learn more. Because, ya know, I have a day job :) This is a “scoop” I would be more than happy to retract.
