Late night food carts and brick-and-mortar restaurants on Broom Street have been embroiled in something of a turf war since late February. However, it appears our long municipal nightmare has finished.
Last night, the city’s Vending Oversight Committee approved a compromise that appears to satiate everyone involved.
The compromise, which eliminates several parking stalls in front of Pita Pit, would still allow food carts on Broom Street, just not directly in front of other restaurants.
This is good news for all people who eat.
It is only natural for restaurants to try to insulate themselves from competition, especially from more mobile competition like food carts. However, doing so ultimately harms consumers by giving them less choice.
By coming together and finding common ground, restaurant and food cart owners have done their part to make sure Madison retains its vibrant, delicious downtown atmosphere. For being able to take advantage of all these delicious food options, anyone who eats food is our winner of the week.
