Residents in Chicago are voicing their opposition to the city’s plans to construct a winterized base camp to house migrants in the Brighton Park neighborhood. Despite concerns raised by locals about overcrowding, safety, and contaminated soil, construction of the camp at 38th Street and California Avenue began this week and is expected to be completed soon. The camp will have the capacity to house up to 2,000 migrants in heated tent structures equipped with amenities such as bathrooms, showers, a kitchen, and security.
However, residents are worried about the potential increase in crime and the strain on local schools due to the influx of migrants. Michael Patlan, a concerned resident, expressed his concern for the children in the neighborhood, stating, “I can handle myself, but I worry more about the children.”
Another significant concern raised by residents is the site’s location, which was previously an industrial area. Locals fear that the soil may still be contaminated and that migrants who move into the camp could become sick as a result. Ricardo Palacios, a community member, pointed out that the camp is situated near railroad tracks, which can lead to water accumulation during rainfall. He warned that this could eventually lead to people falling ill and taxpayers having to bear the financial burden.
Although the city has conducted environmental testing, the results have not been released yet. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office assured residents that details regarding environmental remediation would be provided soon. Efforts are being made to mitigate these concerns, with completion expected by the end of the week, weather permitting.
During a press conference, Mayor Johnson highlighted the construction of the encampment and placed blame on his predecessor, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, for the city’s migrant crisis. He emphasized the need to create spaces that provide more dignity for those living in inadequate conditions.
Chicago has seen an influx of migrants since August 2022, with approximately 20,000 arrivals. This has added to the existing homeless population, with an estimated 68,000 Chicago citizens considered homeless. The city is currently paying nearly $92,000 per month to lease the lot in Brighton Park and has also signed a $29 million contract with GardaWorld to build additional migrant camps.
The concerns and protests from Chicago residents shed light on the challenges faced by the city in addressing the migrant crisis while also grappling with existing issues of homelessness and strained resources. As the construction of the winterized base camp progresses, it remains to be seen how the city will address the concerns raised and ensure the well-being of both migrants and residents.
