It was all part of the first-ever "Open Streets on State Street."
Rollerskating, music and family activities replaced cars for five hours on State, which was closed to traffic from Lake and Van Buren
"It's great," participant Kimberly Patino said. "You know, I'm surprised they don't have more stuff like this. I really love it because I live down the street."
Another visitor, Pauline Pang, said, "It's pretty awesome. It's a little getting used to because we're used to skating on a pretty pristine surface and it's not quite pristine. But it's fun. "
"Open Streets" was modeled after similar events held in cities such as New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Ald. Brendan Reilly said he hopes it can become an annual event.
