Protesters Disrupt Mag Mile Traffic To Demand South Side Trauma Care
(CBS) -- Dozens of protesters blocked traffic on the Magnificent Mile near Water Tower place Thursday evening during the latest demonstration demanding trauma care on Chicago's South Side.
The protest was timed to coincide with a University of Chicago alumni event. The U of C, with its medical campus, has been a consistent target of criticism.
Some protesters chained themselves to traffic signals, and the police moved in. At least nine people were arrested.
Chopper 2 was over the scene when, ironically, the demonstrators forced a Chicago Fire Department ambulance -- with its lights flashing -- to be diverted.
Organizers say a trauma center should be opened before a presidential library is built.
University of Chicago representatives released a statement in response to Thursday's protest that reads, in part:
"A trauma center is a demanding public service that requires a geographic assessment, as well as coordination and planning by the city, state and health care providers throughout Chicago. Many states have been successful in funding trauma systems, but a universal solution has yet to be found."