Although it’s long been speculated that Mayor Richard Daley ordered Meigs closed to make way for a park, his original justification was that he feared terrorists would use the airport to launch an attack on the city’s downtown. Now, the city is using the same line to try and defend itself against the FAA charges. Martinez told the Tribune the city doesn’t think the 30-day notice requirement applies in this case because of the perceived terrorism threat. Meanwhile, the city didn’t waste any time getting the park started. It was opened to the public last month with little fanfare and consists of a patch of meadow and a running trail. More development is planned next year. Airport proponents have proposed a plan that would include an airport as well as park space and an air museum.
…City Says Rules Don’t Apply In This Case…
Key Takeaways:
- Chicago Mayor Richard Daley closed Meigs Field, citing a terrorism threat, a justification the city continues to use to defend against FAA charges.
- The city argues it was not required to provide a 30-day notice for the airport closure due to the perceived terrorism threat.
- The former airport site has already been redeveloped into a public park, consisting of a meadow and running trail, with more development scheduled.
- Airport proponents have proposed an alternative plan that would include both airport facilities and park space, along with an air museum.
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