Control of Penn's sidewalks

The University should have a say in which vendors are located on campus. The Bureau of Licenses and Inspection should still issue the necessary permits for vendors. But the University should have some kind of control over vending in a constrained area. When L & I receives an application for vending in the area between 34th and 40th streets and Spruce and Walnut streets, officials should consult with University administrators before approving the permit. Since it is not clearly defined who has jurisdiction over the sidewalks, the two parties should work together to solve the vending issue. However, we don't think the University should have total control of what is on our streets. The food vendors provide a valuable service to many employees, faculty and students. If the current relationship between L & I and the University continues, then permits may end up being granted to vendors who want to set up shop in front of the proposed Sansom Commons, for example. If Penn is trying to improve the University city area overall, then the city should be more attentive in helping them out.