Shelter for Chicago migrants would open in Bridgeport under Mayor Brandon Johnson’s proposal – NBC Chicago

A number of residents in Chicago’s Bridgeport community have voiced objections to a proposal put forward by Mayor Brandon Johnson to open a temporary migrant shelter in the neighborhood.

“He doesn’t know where to put them,” said resident Christopher Osinger. “Why would you put them in our neighborhood? Why not stop by your place?

Others said the community had existing needs that had not been met.

“All this money he gives them, we have been begging for years,” added another resident, Khalid Muhammad.

“We’ve lived here our whole lives, and a lot of bad things are already happening here,” resident Michelle Gusich said. “We don’t need it, we just don’t need it.”

Located a few blocks from the Guaranteed Rate Field, the proposed shelter would be located in a building near Canal Street and Pershing Road in the city’s 11th Ward.

“Look where it is, it’s hidden in the back,” said Tommy Russell, president of the Canaryville Veterans Riders Association. “Why is this a good location?” We don’t have any amenities as it is.

Ald. Nicole Lee, who represents the neighborhood, released a letter to voters Friday, saying she was informed earlier this week and met with the mayor. In the letter, Lee explains that the city wants to move migrants staying at the Standard Club near the Dirksen Federal Building to his neighborhood before the city hosts the Democratic National Convention in August.

“It’s just insane, it doesn’t make any sense,” Gusich said. “Keep them downtown. I don’t know, it’s not our problem.

The alderman made clear in the letter that she was against the proposed plan, citing safety and location concerns and lack of justification for the move.

“As our city grapples with this unprecedented influx of migrants, it is crucial that we manage the migrant crisis safely, responsibly and with complete transparency,” said the alderman. “The well-being of our communities must be the top priority. As developments unfold, we will continue to keep you informed and advocate for the best interests of our community.

The director of the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services provided the following statement to NBC Chicago when asked about the proposed plan: “The Department of Family and Support Services made the statement following to NBC Chicago when asked about the proposed plan:

“Ald. Lee has been notified in an effort to gather feedback and information on a potential temporary emergency shelter site. We will continue to be transparent and inform community stakeholders as we gather more information and determine next steps.”