Chicago officials met with homeless residents Wednesday to warn them that tents could be removed from under viaducts in October.
Maria Murray, who lives under the Lawrence Avenue viaduct near Lake Shore Drive, said the tents “are essential for some degree of protection of our personal items. For example, medication, documents, hygiene kits and blankets.”
City officials assured the homeless that no tents would be removed before mid-October.
City officials also highlighted an existing program that aims to house 75 people living under viaducts.
But Charles Holder, who other residents referred to as the mayor of the tent encampment, said he expects the local tent population to grow because a nearby shelter is slated to close this winter.
