Chicago prepares safety measures for holiday weekend as community groups mobilize
CHICAGO (WLS) — Community organizations and city officials outlined plans Friday to help keep residents safe over the Fourth of July weekend, one year after 55 people were shot and eight were killed during the holiday period.
Ahead of the weekend, groups distributed flyers aimed at discouraging violence, while city leaders detailed a strategy focused on monitoring large gathering areas and responding quickly to emerging issues.
Deputy Mayor for Community Safety Emanuel Andre said the city expects thousands of people to be out across Chicago.
Andre said the plan includes seven “safety activations” in key areas and additional police presence. Chicago police have canceled days off for specialized units to increase staffing. He said the city’s approach will remain flexible, adjusting as needed based on activity throughout the weekend. Andre added that early crowds downtown were a positive sign, saying people appeared comfortable being out.