Alexandria — To the Editor:
As a Southeast Quadrant resident of historic Alexandria, I want to whole-heartedly welcome food trucks to Old Town.
Since I moved here in 1994, I have watched young families move into and embrace Old Town. At a time when many people leave for the suburbs to raise their children, more and more families are choosing to stay in town and raise their kids in an urban atmosphere. This is one of the most walkable and attractive cities in the U.S. We have a vibrant food scene and I believe food trucks are going to add to our attraction — not detract.
In March, Fodor’s Travel wrote an article titled Top Five Reasons to go to Charleston, S.C. and in the opening salvo praised the historic city for their progressive stance on food trucks. “Charleston is known for its cobblestoned streets, gas lamps, and plantation homes, not to mention its ridiculously friendly locals, who are proud of their city and want to show it off. But this gracious port city isn't stuck in the past. Charleston has a thriving creative class, and in this food-obsessed town, it seems that a new restaurant, bar, or food truck launches just about every week.” I would love to see Fodor’s write the same thing about Old Town, Alexandria.
There are many of us who feel that food trucks and a vibrant waterfront that includes restaurants that take in the view belong in this City’s future. We are living in an urban setting — this is not the suburbs — we chose not to move down the parkway. These progressive proposals are in harmony with our historic past. Alexandria was founded by merchants — businessmen who pushed back the flow of the Potomac River to make a profit. I believe that this city’s Founding Fathers would have approved food trucks – even at Market Square. So, welcome and good luck — I’m sure your culinary efforts will only enhance our town.
Tiffany Pache, Alexandria