Food Trucks Coming To CA’s Outdoor Pools
Calling all Columbia foodies! We’ve got some exciting news: Food trucks will be coming to CA’s 15 outdoor pool locations this summer.
This update comes on the heels of the decision to permanently close CA’s nine snack bars. In turn, CA’s Open Space department eased requirements to allow food trucks to reserve slots at outdoor pools.
This decision is a win-win for all: CA is able offer an alternative to the snack bars that supports local businesses, and pool-goers can choose from a great variety of food and refreshments this summer.
How Food Trucks Can Apply
First things first: Why close the snack bars?
“For the last four years, the snack bars had been losing about $35,000 to $40,000 annually,” explained CA Aquatics Director Marty Oltmanns. “Closing them had been on the table for a while, and COVID-19 accelerated the decision.”
As we say goodbye to the snack bars, we’re happy to say hello to new delicious options this summer. A calendar will be coming soon with more details on vendors, times and locations.
Outdoor pool season runs from May 29th to September 6th, but the booking process for food trucks is already underway. Mobile food service businesses are encouraged to apply to visit the following available pools for summer 2021: Clemens Crossing, Dickinson, Dorsey Hall, Hawthorn, Hobbit’s Glen, Hopewell, Huntington, Kendall Ridge, Longfellow, Phelps Luck, River Hill, Running Brook, Stevens Forest, Swansfield and Thunder Hill. These can be recurring visits, or a one-time occasion, depending on your preferences.
To apply, simply fill out the following form: MobileFoodServiceApplication&Requirements (1). There is a $50 application fee. Return completed applications to:
Columbia Association Aquatics Department
Attn: Rental Request
9450 Gerwig Lane Columbia, MD 21046
Email: Aquatics.rentals@ColumbiaAssociation.org
Phone: 410-312-6332
More Details Coming Soon
In addition to enjoying the food trucks, you are also welcome to bring your own food and drink into the pool facilities (no glass containers, alcohol or gum).
In the weeks leading up to Memorial Day, more information will be made available. The best ways to get the latest information on everything pools-related is to sign up for the CA Swim newsletter and follow CA Swim on Facebook and Twitter.