Caltrans Worker Launched Sacramento Hot Dog Business
A former Caltrans employee left his state role in June to operate a hot dog cart in the Sacramento area.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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In mid-June 2026, Drew Schmidt officially launched his mobile food business, Between the Buns 916, after resigning from his position at Caltrans. The career transition allowed him to move away from highway maintenance and focus on serving hot dogs to the local community.
Why it matters
Schmidt decided to pursue the venture to spend more quality time at home with his wife. He transitioned from his long-term role as a highway maintenance worker and food service supervisor to manage daily operations as an independent entrepreneur.
The business offers individual hot dogs for $8, while combo meals featuring two dogs are priced between $10 and $11. Additional sides and drinks, including chips, soda, or water, are available for $1.50 each.
The players
Drew Schmidt
He is a former Caltrans employee who transitioned into the food service industry to operate his own cart.
Caltrans
This is the California Department of Transportation responsible for highway maintenance and infrastructure projects.
Between the Buns 916
This is the mobile hot dog cart business launched by Drew Schmidt in Sacramento.
The details
Schmidt acquired the cart from a retiring operator in November and now serves lunch at the Metro Center office complex. He also tests new weekly menu items including Polish dogs and spicy hot links at his second location near Richards Boulevard and North 10th Street.
Timeline
Schmidt purchased the hot dog cart in November.
Between the Buns 916 officially launched in mid-June.
The cart serves customers from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Metro Center.
Service is available Wednesdays and Thursdays at Richards Boulevard and North 10th Street.
Market Landscape
This career shift mirrors the broader trend of professionals leaving structured public sector roles for flexible self-employment to improve work-life balance. By entering the mobile food sector, Schmidt joins a competitive landscape of independent vendors operating in Sacramento's commercial hubs.
Local diners now have an additional lunch option at the Metro Center office complex and the intersection of Richards Boulevard and North 10th Street. The business provides a quick, budget-friendly meal starting at $8 for those working in the vicinity.
The takeaway
Transitioning to a mobile food business offers entrepreneurs greater control over their daily schedules and personal time. Success in this field relies on consistent operations and the ability to adapt menus to satisfy local customer preferences.
Further reading
For more on new businesses arriving in the city, visit the Sacramento section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Seattle Times.
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