Proposed Boulder Food Park Faces Zoning Challenges

Providing a home for food trucks and their clientele, the Boulder Food Park idea includes indoor-outdoor seating, a bar, and a stage for live acts. But before the project can go forward, it requires "some sort of exemption to Boulder city code that doesn't allow food trucks within 150 feet of a brick-and-mortar restaurant. The property, which is less than 150 feet wide, backs up to Thai Shi House on 28th Street."

After initial trepidation, the restaurant's management warmed to the idea: "'Maybe in the beginning they will cause our business to go down, but I think they will bring more people to this area, more people walking by, and help people know about Thai Shi House.'"

The city has been hesitant to grant zoning exemptions, fearing an onslaught of special requests. But the food park idea enjoys support in the City Council. 

Looking to boost "food truck culture," the city may authorize Boulder Food Park as a pilot project. "'Pilot project' has usually meant trying something for a limited amount of time, but it could also mean allowing something at one site and seeing how well it works before allowing it at other sites."