Delay of Gompers Park Homeless Encampment Removal Prompts Little League to Move Games from Park
League Cites Safety Concerns, including Drug Use, Dog Attacks, and Fires
The Gompers Park Athletic Association (GPAA) has made the decision to move their baseball and softball league from Gompers Park due to a variety of safety concerns. The decision comes after a unanimous vote by the board, citing concerns about drug use and drug paraphernalia found near playing fields, dog attacks, and multiple fires in the area.
“It’s just common sense to us. We had an unofficial vote last week or last month in January at this same establishment,” said Ryan Johnson, President of the GPAA. “We all agreed unanimously that with the ongoing safety concerns, we can’t comfortably bring children to the park.”
League’s Concerns about the Homeless Encampment
The league’s concerns about the homeless encampment in Gompers Park are not new. The City of Chicago previously announced a clear-out of the encampment later this month, but that has now been delayed to early March and has been rebranded as an accelerated moving event.
“As long as the accelerated moving event happens on March 5th, or any point before the season starts,” Johnson said. “And we’re comfortable that the tents are gone and we have reassurance that no one will be moving back in the area, we can quickly get the kid’s games rescheduled back to that park, which is what everyone wants.”
League’s Plan B: Alternative Fields for the 2023 Season
If the measure to move the league passes, GPAA said there are secured fields that players will use once their baseball and softball season starts on April 21. Mayfair Park has a field that the league will use for younger kids, and Eugene Field, which is about two minutes away, will also be an option.
Residents and Alderman Call for Expedited Action
Ald. Samantha Nugent (39th Ward) and residents around Gompers Park have sent letters to Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office asking his administration to expedite the moving event, citing the same safety concerns listed above. However, the mayor’s office has not returned WGN News’ request for comment on this story.
Conclusion
The Gompers Park Athletic Association’s decision to move their league from Gompers Park is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of their players. While the league hopes that the accelerated moving event will take place soon, they are prepared to move to alternative fields if necessary.
FAQs
* Why is the Gompers Park Athletic Association moving their league from Gompers Park?
The league is moving due to safety concerns, including drug use, dog attacks, and fires in the area.
* When will the accelerated moving event take place?
The event has been delayed to early March and will be rebranded as an accelerated moving event.
* Where will the league play their games if they move from Gompers Park?
The league has secured alternative fields at Mayfair Park and Eugene Field for the 2023 season.
