ALTON – Alton is considering new rules that would allow pop up shops to operate on city sidewalks while protecting current businesses.Committee of the Whole members voted unanimously on Aug. 24, 2026 to approve a resolution allowing “sidewalk pop up shops” in the City of Alton.The city would require sidewalk pop up shops to obtain special event permits before operating under the proposed resolution. These permits would be valid for up to 15 days within a calendar year.In an eff...