Missoula May Finally Get the Food Truck Court Locals Have Wanted

Missoula may be getting one of the things I've been asking for for years: a food truck court. 

The Need for a Food Truck Hub

We have a pretty incredible food truck scene here in Missoula, but I've always thought it would be great to have a more permanent place where several food trucks could gather. 

Convenience at Your Fingertips: One Location, Many Flavors

Instead of driving all over town trying to find your favorite truck, you could go to one location and have several different options. 

Well, there may finally be some movement on that idea. 

Proposed Location: A New Gathering Spot

According to information from a recent Missoula Redevelopment Agency board meeting, there's a proposal that could eventually turn part of Missoula into a food truck court. 

The proposed location is the intersection of West Broadway and Toole Avenue. 

The History of West Broadway: A Promising Site

The area has had several businesses over the years, including Zambrano's and Red Pies Over Montana, and Hoagieville. Most recently, Cruz Tacos operated there before moving out. 

There's also an abandoned building at 1260 West Broadway that has been sitting there for a couple of years. 

Paul Beck, who purchased the properties across three parcels, is looking at redeveloping the site and possibly turning it into a food truck court. 

Inspired by Bozeman: A Model Worth Emulating

Here's the part that really caught my attention. 

The food truck court would be modeled after the food truck court in Bozeman. 

READ MORE: Food Truck Fans Just Said Something Surprising About Restaurants in Missoula

I've seen the Bozeman setup myself, and I've wondered for years why Missoula couldn't have something similar. 

Now, we may finally be getting one. 

Before anybody gets too excited, this is very much in the early stages. 

The property is relatively small and triangular because of its location at Broadway and Toole, which makes traditional development difficult. 

A food truck court could actually make a lot of sense. 

READ MORE: New Summer Food Truck Pod Debuts in Missoula This Week

It would give food trucks a place where they can get in and out, while allowing customers to try several different restaurants in one location. 

Missoula already has the food trucks. 

We just need a place to bring them together. 

Benefits of a Food Truck Court: Community and Investment

The project could also encourage additional investment in that area, particularly with the Missoula Water Public Works and Mobility Complex located less than a block away. 

Again, this isn't happening tomorrow. There are still plenty of steps before this becomes reality. 

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If it follows the Bozeman model, I think this could be a fantastic addition to Missoula. 

Would you like to see a permanent food truck court in Missoula?