Alton, Ill. – Alton is in the running to win a downtown makeover. The Metro East city was up against 30,000 small towns. Alton is now one of the top five finalists in the Small Business Revolution, a web show that can also be found on Hulu.
"Let's promote a small river town that is almost like the little engine that couldn’t and now we are thriving,” said Shannon Walker, who lives in Alton and is married to the city’s mayor, Brett Stawar.
Its other competitors include Amesbury, Massachusetts; Bastrop, Texas; Martinez, California and Siloam Springs, Arkansas.
Throughout the week, the city has been hosting special events and boosting the #myalton. Walker thought up the idea for Monday’s human chain.
“Just, cross hands, show how much these small businesses really care for each other and how much they support each other,” said Walker.
The owners of State Street Market, Terri and Glenn Beaubin, said no matter what the outcome, this recognition has been a huge boost.
"It's already bringing a lot to our community,” Beaubin said. “I will tell you that right now, just being a part of this is revitalizing downtown."
One day before the deadline, Walker is confident Alton is a strong contender
“This voting system, it has nothing to do with anybody but the citizens,” she said. “We have nobody to thank but the citizens of Alton, if we win, or wait when we win,” she added.
February 20 is the last day to vote. To vote, click here.
