CAPS officers suggests residents report dangerous cyclists

At the monthly CAPS meeting, residents of the New Eastside expressed concerns over pedestrian safety on Michigan Avenue crosswalks after a woman was reportedly felled by a bicyclist.

The resident who brought up the issue asked officer Necole Bryson during the Feb. 14 meeting, held at 130 N. Garland Court, if there is anything police can do to punish unsafe bicyclists.

Bryson said the police will go after bicyclists, but they need a good description of the rider.

“If someone can call 911 and give a good description, there is a chance someone could do something,” she said.

Residents claimed motorists aren’t safe when they turn onto Michigan Avenue. One resident said it could be that motorists don’t understand when to turn.

“Some of the signs to motorists are too small and people ignore them,” she said.

In particular, Adams and Washington are problematic for pedestrians because cars ignore turning regulations.

Bryson told the audience that quality of life issues are important to officers and while the area does not have much violent crime, officers do work to make the area safe and more enjoyable for residents.

To that end, Bryson said officers are working to ensure safety along the Red and Blue subway lines after residents expressed concerns.

“I personally have worked it on my days off. The deployment has increased. Its’ a focal point, especially the Red Line,” she said. “But yes, we are working with everyone.”

One resident said some people on the Blue Line are under the influence of drugs or intoxicated and get aggressive. She said she feels like these people could attack her.

Bryson said it’s important for commuters to be aware of their surroundings and to stay off their phones. If people are acting odd or threatening anyone, commuters can call 911 or can contact CTA officials who are present, she said.

“If you see something that doesn’t feel right, say something,” Bryson said.

Some residents complained of unsanitary conditions in the pedway and wanted to know who is responsible. Bryson said the city maintains anything that isn’t beneath a building, but when the pedway is under a business, then the business must maintain it.

A woman said the area below Macy’s is particularly unsightly.

“It’s not just dirty, it’s filthy,” she said. “I mean, if Macy’s owns this, they need to belly up to the bar and clean it up.”

The next CAPS meeting will be March 14, at 400 E. Randolph St.