Wicker Park Officials: Curbing Park Drinking, Drugs, Vandalism

The issue of vandalism in Wicker Park is nothing new. But officials believe the solutions for combating it have to be.

That's why the Wicker Park Advisory Council is hosting yet another meeting on the issue Tuesday night. Coordinators are seeking solutions "for better enforcing the park district's Code of Conduct in all areas of Wicker Park and for all park patrons," the council's secretary, Doug Wood, recently included in an e-mail.

Curbing drinking, drug usage, drug sales, harassment and vandalism are among his top priorities, he has said.

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And this isn't the first time he's broached the issue. In January, he proposed plans to staff the park with security guards, particularly as the warm weather arrived.

Setting a precedent early in the season is necessary, he said, so transient rail riders and "crusty punks" known to set up camp in the park—as well as the late-night post-bar crowds—are aware their behavior won't be tolerated.

READ: Officials: Beefed Up Security May Deter Vandals in Wicker Park

A March 5 meeting on the subject was rescheduled because of a snow storm. Tuesday night's meeting will include proposed solutions from 1st Ward Ald. Proco Joe Moreno, Chicago Park District Chief Operating Officer Patrick Levar, CPD Central Region Manager Art Richardson and other park district and WPAC staff.

It will begin at 7 p.m. at the Wicker Park Field House, 1425 N. Damen Ave.

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