Neighbors, alderman appalled by street takeover on Chicago thoroughfare
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Milwaukee Avenue in Logan Square was the scene of a wild street takeover this past weekend, with people blocking busy streets.
This latest incident has left neighbors and city leaders fuming.
After the bars closed Sunday night into Monday, a group decided to turn the thoroughfare into their dance floor, blocking traffic and being rowdy.
Yet even when Chicago Police arrived, the street party did not stop.
The center of the action was the 2400 block of North Milwaukee Avenue – from the intersection with east-west Fullerton Avenue northwest to the intersection with north-south Sacramento Avenue.
Loud music blared from vehicles while in the middle of the road, primarily women – but also some men – danced.
Chicago Police were quick to the scene. Yet despite lights and sirens going, the group did not disperse.
Instead, some kept gyrating while officers tried clearing the crowd blocking traffic.
Ald. Daniel La Spata (1st) said the conduct of the crowd was "disrespectful," adding that he and the Shakespeare (14th) District police commanders are already working on a new tactical plan to make sure the Milwaukee Avenue entertainment district in Logan Square stays popular – yet orderly.
Chicago Police told CBS 2 officers did not cite or arrest anyone in the crowd. The alderman said some might call what happened harmless fun and consider it typical behavior at bar closing time – yet La Spata added that the rowdy actions, if not curbed, could turn into something nefarious.
It is not clear how long the crowd blocked traffic. Yet, with spring and warmer days ahead, the alderman said they must get ahead of the problem now.