From Food Trucks to Foot Traffic: Rethinking Downtown Development in Sauk Prairie

In this report, La Follette students analyze the introduction of food trucks as an approach to economic revitalization in the two historic downtowns of Sauk City and Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin.

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Summary

This report analyzes the introduction of food trucks as an approach to economic revitalization in the two historic downtowns of Sauk City and Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin, which have faced declining foot traffic in recent years. A local business survey, comparative case studies, and a policy analysis inform customized recommendations for each municipality for recurring food truck events and regulation options. Recommendations are based on how well policies satisfy three evaluation criteria: effectiveness, political feasibility, and ease of implementation.

Information

  • Course: Workshop in Public Affairs, PA 869, taught by Manny Teodoro, Spring 2026
  • Authors: Jacob Anderson, Travis Austin, Angie Bloechl, and Grace Florence
  • Client: Sauk Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce