Two West Loop locations have been earmarked as shelters for migrants. Alderman Walter Burnett says they're in high-tourist areas.
The two sites at 939 West Lake Street, which opened Wednesday, and 30 North Racine, which is set to open Friday, are in Alderman Walter Burnett's ward. He said he found out about the city's plans Monday, and is concerned because the influx of migrants would be housed in high-tourist areas.
"We have been fortunate thus far that the community has been welcoming. But we're starting to get a lot," the 27th Ward alderman said."I think some of these commercial spaces have empty spaces that they haven't been able to rent because of the economy and they figure they'll get some money from the government," Burnett said."I personally don't have an issue with it.
And one business owner is also pitching in to welcome the migrants. Yung Kwon owns West Loop Cleaners and plans to donate coats and blankets that have not been claimed by their owners. "The weather is getting cold so i feel they might be needing some warm clothes or a blanket," he said."I really appreciate my neighbors. They helped my business. They have been welcoming to this country," he said.
Ald. Burnett and other city officials are hosting a community at Plumbers Hall to discuss the arrival and sheltering of migrants at the West Loop locations at 6 p.m. Wednesday. They'll share a presentation and answer questions from residents.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Kumiko in West Loop named one of the ‘World's Best Bars' — againThe bar made the same list last year, but in a different spot.
Read more »
Man faces trespassing, reckless conduct charges after climbing Accenture Tower in the West LoopA man was arrested and is now facing criminal charges Wednesday after he climbed the Accenture Tower in the city's West Loop on Tuesday morning.
Read more »
Chicago's process to house thousands of migrants frustrates alderpeople, residentsAs the city desperately tries to find housing for migrants coming to Chicago, CBS 2 learned two new shelters are coming to the West Loop. City data show Chicago has welcomed 18,000 new arrivals since last year. Of those migrants, 3,866 are still waiting for housing.
Read more »
Chicago residents want more communication from city on housing of migrantsAs the city desperately tries to find housing for migrants coming to Chicago, CBS 2 learned two new shelters are coming to the West Loop. City data show Chicago has welcomed 18,000 new arrivals since last year. Of those migrants, 3,866 are still waiting for housing.
Read more »