A number of frustrated Chicagoans spent part of Friday trying to track down vehicles that were towed ahead of the funeral procession for fallen Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew.
But questions remain over whether people received enough warning before towing started.
The major road closure, which impacted traffic and parking across the North Side, stretched along Lawrence Avenue.
Signs went up on many lightpoles: “No Parking, Towing Enforced.”
Vehicles were towed along nearly the entire stretch from Lake Michigan to the Edens Expressway.
“Got up this morning, the car was gone,” one resident said.
Chicago police said most cars parked along the procession route were relocated in the neighborhood. However, hundreds ended up at city impound lots, including on the city’s West Side.
“Lawrence doesn’t require a city sticker to park on, it’s usually free for all parking, we park there every night,” one resident stated.
Frustrated drivers reported hours-long waits and hundreds of dollars in fees.
Many wished they had gotten more of a warning.
“I thought it was stolen, it was not stolen, the city of Chicago got it,” one resident said.
“I asked them what was going on did they tow, unfortunately they did tow everybody’s car parked on Lawrence,” another stated. “There was no signs on Lawrence where I live at.”
Police said warnings were posted along the route, and alderpersons also shared warnings about the parking restrictions online. However, city officials haven’t released an official statement in response to the towings.
Chicago police said residents who still can’t find their cars should call 311. Operators can determine a car’s location by searching the license plate.
