‘Tech Taco Truck’ in Seattle’s Central District provides much more than just food

The owner is now strengthening the community by supplying the community with a solar power grid.

SEATTLE – Seattle’s Central District is causing a stir with the “Tech Taco Truck” that has been charging the community for several weeks.

Moises Santos has been running the El Costeno Taco Truck at an old gas station for years and said he had dreamed of reviving the decade-long neglected location due to systemic problems.

Recently, Moises took a step towards his dream of fusing sustainable tacos with community service. He is now strengthening the community by literally driving the community forward.

A grassroots effort has resulted in a local 10 kW solar power grid, and the addition of WiFi and 5G services has enabled more local children to access online learning. They offer mentoring for kids who want to develop their own technology and run tech workshops for locals on weekends.

There are plans to add a reverse osmosis system to provide visitors with clean water. The old gas station is now home to Northstar Cycles – a community-run organization that offers free bikes to children who want to ride more around town.

The amalgamation of technology and community has resulted in a 24/7 power and internet resource with an emphasis on community empowerment and education.

The plans are constantly evolving, as Moises has now worked with more than 15 organizations and does not rely on any city or government funding.

Moises is supported by a number of partners who share his vision of recharging the area. Aaron Bossett leads the community initiative to mentor local youth and Joydeep Hazra supports the technology integration ideas.

Given the recent heat wave and the potential for power outages, the group believes they are a crucial and strategic resource for a very diverse community.

Moises said its current grid could power 50-60 households and is developing mobile units that could be used in homes or assist seniors in emergency situations.