Bridgeport residents oppose proposed Amtrak rail yard near Chicago White Sox stadium
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Residents in Bridgeport are voicing opposition to a proposed Amtrak rail yard that would be located near the Chicago White Sox stadium, Rate Field, saying the project could affect property values and the character of the neighborhood.
Cathy Lange, a Bridgeport resident whose property is near existing train tracks and the site of the proposed rail yard, said she is concerned about the impact on the community.
"Absolutely. The property value without a doubt is going to plummet. I You're going to lose families that have been raised for generations," Lange said.
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Opposition to the project has grown in recent days. According to residents, more than 1,000 people have signed petitions against the development in the past few days. Many neighbors argue the project would create environmental problems and further industrialize the area.
"They have big plans to turn Bridgeport into an industrial corridor. No place anybody would want to live. It's ridiculous," Bridgeport resident Maria Lagiglio said.
Amtrak has emphasized the project's economic benefits, citing jobs and broader economic impact. In a statement, the company said, "The modern, purpose-built facility on an existing rail yard owned by Union Pacific Railroad will allow for more efficient servicing of railcars, reduce service disruptions and turnaround time."
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Alderman Nicole Lee of the 11th Ward said she believes the facility should be located in an existing industrial area and pledged to continue opposing the proposal.
"My intention is to stop this. We're doing everything we can to stop this. I do not believe this is a done deal," Lee said.
Under the proposal, the existing rail yard in the South Loop would be relocated to Bridgeport. The South Loop site is near an area where some have speculated a new White Sox stadium could be built.
Residents said they intend to continue fighting the proposal.
"This deal is not going to happen. We are not accepting this deal," Bridgeport resident Ann Caruso said.
Earlier this week, Amtrak postponed a public hearing on the proposed rail yard at Lee's request. The meeting has not been rescheduled.
