Chicago beaches open Friday as Mayor Johnson, officials outline summer safety plan

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago beaches open up Friday, marking the unofficial start of the summer.

City leaders say safety is their top priority.

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Mayor Brandon Johnson says his 2026 summer safety strategy will focus on neighborhoods seeing ongoing crime while also working with community partners to provide summer jobs and safe spaces for young people.

This comes as the city is still dealing with so called teen takeovers.

The most recent one happened in Hyde ark last weekend, where a 14-year-old girl was arrested and accused of attacking an officer while refusing to leave the area.

Community and city leaders are urging parents to step up.

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This works takes all of us," Mayor Brandon Johnson said. "Together, we will work to prevent violence, create opportunities for residents, ensure our residents have access to support and engagement in our communities

"We will also have additional resources In our business areas, like the beaches, the lakefront, the downtown, our business corridors throughout the entire summer," CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling said.

This weekend, CPD cancelled days to ensure officers have a presence across the city.

Community violence intervention groups are also planning to have expanded hours in neighborhoods.

All 22 Chicago beaches open Friday and will remain open through Labor Day.