On Sept.7 people traffic replaced vehicle traffic on Main Street from Dodge to Hinman avenues, as Main Street became “Streets Alive.” Inspired by an event in Bogota, Colombia, founder and chairperson Natalie Watson conceived the project as a way to encourage physical activity and alternate means of transportation and help people rediscover the streets, Evanston’s largest public spaces.
Main Street was packed with activities, performances and demonstrations for people of all ages. Hundreds of residents and their families came out for walking, biking, skating, yoga, basketball, martial arts, hula hooping, limbo, exercise and even an historical walking tour.
Fortified with treats from visiting food trucks, participants walked or biked the mile-long section of Main Street, discovering art, music, theater, health and fitness and many participating retail businesses. Kids got a close-up look at the City trucks and machines that keep Evanston working. Adults learned about local nonprofit agencies and City volunteer opportunities.