Safe Passage routes extend to Chicago parks this summer

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A new summer safety initiative in Chicago is designed to help keep youngsters safe this summer.

Starting next week through August 20, the Summer Safe Passage program will employ 150 workers to keep watch over the city's youth on their way to summer park activities.

The workers will monitor youth as they travel back and forth from recreational programs, including Windy City Hoops basketball, at 20 Chicago parks.

The Safe Passage workers will also be trained in safety protocol and de-escalation tactics.

This city program is modeled after the Safe Passage program at Chicago Public Schools.