Evening dining options on campus have become more limited, with the University recently informing food truck vendors at certain locations that a 6 p.m. closing time will now be strictly enforced.
While some vendors have posted signs informing patrons of the policy and its potential negative impact, the stipulation is not a new part of the trucks' lease agreements, according to University officials.
"The leases with the current hours of operation have been in place in some cases over five years," Director of Retail Development Lisa Prasad said.
But on Oct. 15, food truck owners received notice that "operating beyond the 6 p.m. close will be a violation of [their] lease agreement and be grounds for termination of [their] lease agreement."
According to Prasad, there was "no aggressive change of enforcement policies."
"We have a responsibility to the people who eat there to maintain health standards," she said.
Nevertheless, this clause was not enforced before, according to some food truck owners, who routinely stayed open later.
"We used to close around 9 because classes end later for some people," said Sunit Singh, a worker at Curry on Wheels, located at 37th and Walnut streets.
And many have expressed concern over the limited business hours.
"Us being open helps out everyone, especially the Penn students," said Lac Nguyen, owner of George's Lunch Truck, also at 37th and Walnut streets.
"I don't think we can survive without this profit," he added.
Some food trucks have posted signs stating, "This is likely a step towards moving food trucks off campus altogether."
However, University officials denied such allegations.
Prasad stressed that the University is "concerned about the viability of small business on campus, noting that food trucks "are a very important part of our community" and that Penn would not have extended leases with the food trucks for another 12-month term if this was not the case.
Nonetheless, some students have voiced concern.
"It's messed up," Engineering senior Henri Lai said. "They want the kids to go to 'real establishments' to spend money. But that's not really in our best interests."
Lai also noted the earlier closing time was inconvenient.
"Food trucks closing before 6 is a problem for me," he said. "I lift at Pottruck at night and I like to grab something to eat afterwards."
College junior James Nichols echoed Lai's comments.
"I live in... Sansom Place West," Nichols said. These food trucks "are extremely convenient for me." Nichols said he went to these vendors at night at least once a week.
The lease agreement only affects those located in Fresh Air Food Plazas --designated areas for food trucks around campus. Besides the plaza at 37th and Walnut streets, there are four other such locations -- 33rd and South streets, 34th and Spruce streets, 34th and Walnut streets and 40th Street.
The University provides these food plazas with amenities such as cleaning services, electricity and trash pickup, according to Business Services spokesman Tony Sorrentino.
Trucks located on 38th Street and those outside of the Quadrangle have lease agreements with the city and are not affected by these changes.
