City Soles

"We have genuine homeless needs in Chicago," said Joe Moreno, calling drifters "selectively homeless."

"I cannot afford to not be paid and lose my inventory," said a frustrated artist.

"Even big corporate places are closing, not just the independents,” shop owner said.

Since increasing penalties in 2013, city levies $6 million in fines for peeing in public, data shows.

Next to Flash Taco, the Milwaukee, Damen and North intersection spot was long home to City Soles.

"Now we're more centrally in the Wicker Park shopping district," said owner Scott Starbuck.

The patterned sneakers will join TOMS Shoes, Nike, Finish Line and Asics, all within two blocks.

Adam Rotter said it was "the coolest thing" that he was hired by the new tenant of a long vacant shop.

Owner Scott Starbuck said he is "tickled" by the new spot, which will have an in-store TV studio.

The owner of the Black Building Trust said the Starbucks could take over the shoe shop's storefront.

Check out some things to do in the Wicker Park area Friday through Sunday.