Clark Street could become America's Best Main Street. When you think about it, Clark Street is a pretty decent candidate. It runs more than eight miles throughout the city and hits a handful of iconic landmarks, including Wrigley Field and Lincoln Park Zoo. The national contest includes more than 200 streets across the country, and any Chicagoans who want Clark Street to win can vote once daily through June 3.
The America's Main Streets contest, supported by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, believe Main Streets are the foundation of community. That's why the grand prize will award $25,000 and other prizes to help revitalize and promote the winning street.
According to DNA Info, Clark Street was nominated by Aviva Plummer of Clark-Devon Hardware, which has existed for decades on the corner of Clark Street and Devon Avenue. The family-owned business is part of a diverse community of small local businesses like kosher markets, panaderias, theaters, tattoo shops, law offices and boutiques. Tons of street festivals, colorful murals and restaurants covering all types of cuisine populate Clark Street.
Go ahead and vote if you think Clark Street is worthy of winning. But if you feel like your street has been neglected, you still have a chance to nominate any stretch of pavement you think deserves the title of America's Best Main Street.