Food Truck Initiative Launches in Columbia Gateway
Columbia, MD (4/10/17) – Nearly 300 people stopped by Columbia Gateway’s new twice-weekly Food Trucks program which began operating on April 4.
Every Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., a rotating set of two to three different food trucks will set up shop at 6821 Benjamin Franklin Drive, adding to the already established dining locations inside the Columbia Gateway Business Park.
The program’s inaugural week featured UpslideDown Dave, Wanna Pizza This, Bistro Lunch Box and Simple Sands. The second week, April 11 and April 13, is set to feature 2 BOLD Chefs & a Truck, T&J Waffles, Kona Ice, Pablo’s Tacos and Maui Wowi Tiki Truck.
The initiative, part of the HCEDA’s push to reinvent the Columbia Gateway community into a Business Innovation District, is designed to draw Gateway employees together and foster a sense of community among Gateway businesses.
“The food truck business is an innovative industry full of entrepreneurship and a perfect fit for what we are doing in this innovation district,” said County Executive Allan H. Kittleman. “To remain competitive, employers are always looking to provide employees with the best amenities. By bringing more fun, creative dining options into Columbia Gateway, we’re helping to keep this location a desirable area to work.”
The HCEDA partnered with the Maryland Mobile Food Vending Association to coordinate the food truck schedule. Abrams Development Group, a Gateway property owner, provided space to host the trucks at the Rohde & Schwarz building for their twice-weekly trips.
“We are excited about the opportunity to expand our market and begin serving the workforce in Columbia Gateway,” said Dave Pulford, President of the Maryland Mobile Food Vending Association. “Busy workers are looking for the perfect combination of convenience, taste, and speed when choosing their lunch options and we believe that the food trucks are great solution for them.”
Columbia Gateway is home to a range of restaurants and eateries. Aida Bistro, Café Gateway, Jae’s Grill, Jae’s Deli, Kokos Food Mart & Grill, Rudy’s Mediterranean Grill & Bar, Flavor of India, Shanghai Tokyo, Abby’s Gourmet Deli and Abby’s Coffee Bar operate in Columbia Gateway.
“We have a vision for Columbia Gateway, and the first step is fostering a sense of community among those who work here,” said HCEDA Chief Executive Officer Lawrence Twele. “Food trucks are a fun and creative way to draw employees from different companies together. We hope the program encourages workers to explore the many dining options within the business park.”
Keep up to date with the food truck schedule at www.gatewayfoodtrucks.com.
About HCEDA
The Howard County Economic Development Authority is a public-private partnership whose primary goal is to promote economic growth and stability by supporting existing businesses, targeting new businesses, and attracting corporate/regional headquarters. The Authority also maintains several programs aimed at the special needs of small and agricultural businesses. Additionally, the Authority strives to preserve the distinctive quality of life in Howard County. The Authority can be reached at www.hceda.org.
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Media Contact:
Brian Sheavly
Howard County Economic Development Authority
Office: (410) 313-6500
Cell: (443)-841-2265
bsheavly@hceda.org
