Argyle Street in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood is a thriving, pedestrian friendly corridor with local restaurants, many of them run by Vietnamese immigrants. However, there was a time when the formerly derelict area off the Red Line L didn't get as much pedestrian traffic, especially at night. One thing that infused some action into the area was the start of the Argyle Night Market, and the groups behind that initiative were recently awarded the Excellence in Neighborhood Revitalization and Economic Vitality Prize.

Uptown United and the 20th District of the Chicago Police Department worked together to start the market, a weekly summer event with farm stands, food vendors, live performances, and retail goods for sale. Last year's series drew more than 20,000 people to eight markets. As part of the prize, those organizations will receive $15,000 to put toward the market and future community building initiatives on Argyle and throughout Uptown.

Last fall, Argyle also became Chicago's first "shared street," a European-esque plaza design where pedestrians, bikers, and cars must co-exist in one wide lane. The area has blossomed into a thriving corridor, and this recognition may continue its development.

Sources:

Neighborhood Group, CPD Awarded for Making Uptown's Argyle Street Pedestrian Friendly [LISC Chicago]

Work begins on Chicago's first "shared street" [Chicago Tribune]