Wicker Park Retailers Report Surge in Foot Traffic After Car-Free 'Meet Me On Milwaukee' Success
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Wicker Park ·
A successful pilot program that temporarily banned cars along a section of Milwaukee Avenue in Wicker Park will return in 2026, bringing continued benefits to local businesses. The 'Meet Me On Milwaukee' events, which closed Milwaukee Avenue between the Damen/North intersection and Ashland Avenue to car traffic for seven hours on the last Sunday of August, September, and October, proved extremely popular with both visitors and businesses.
Local shop owners like Maddie Rogers of Vintage House Chicago reported significant increases in customer traffic during the events. 'With each time, it got more and more busy, because people like the idea of a more walkable city,' Rogers noted. Many businesses set up sidewalk sales outside their storefronts and even welcomed trick-or-treaters during the October event. The program transformed the usually congested street into a community space where 'kids played hopscotch, did chalk art, and rode scooters and bikes' in what is typically one of Chicago's busiest thoroughfares.
The innovative program received praise from Mayor Brandon Johnson, who called it a 'model and example' for how business corridors can thrive with pedestrian-friendly initiatives. 'This is a testament to how our economy can continue to grow by promoting local businesses and creating spaces where we're intentional about attracting consumers to our communities,' Johnson stated. Local officials confirmed the events were 'a net positive' for participating businesses. Residents interested in sharing input on next year's plans can attend the upcoming Wicker Park Advisory Council meeting on Thursday, November 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the Wicker Park Field House.
Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/11/03/car-free-meet-me-on-milwaukee-events-will-return-to-wicker-park-next-year/
2. https://wickerpark.org/events/