The Chainlink

Assault on LFP

http://www.suntimes.com/7404266-417/four-boys-arrested-for-beating-...

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Permalink Reply by Meg Matthews on September 1, 2011 at 1:58pm

So, I've wondered this before and still don't have a great answer. Would love thoughts from others on the south side of the path: I'm a youngish female who commutes along LFP from her new place near 53rd to downtown and back. There will often be times, especially in fall and winter, where I'm coming home late after dark. Most times it won't be past 6:30 or 7, but I do work some late nights where it's closer to 9. It seems silly to let one incident like this dissuade me, but I have a Trek 520 (not slow, but not fast) and am usually moving along with a moderately heavy pannier--so it's not like I can speed off if anyone tries to jump me.

I don't want to care, but I wonder if it's tempting fate? C'mon, all ye south side commuters: tell me that year round cycling on LFP after dusk is no big deal!

Permalink Reply by S on September 1, 2011 at 2:15pm

I live in Hyde Park myself and I haven't had any problems on the path although parts of it can be a bit sketchy and empty.  With the current construction and the fencing, it's a bit more so.  There's two things to be aware of.  First, a lot of the LFP on the south side is relatively inaccessible for pedestrians so people are unlikely to be there, especially those looking for quick and easy scores.  The downside to this is that if something happens there may not be anyone around in that area for a while.  It can be a bit iffy but between the cops and difficulties in getting to the parts of the path on foot, it's relatively safe.  Also, come fall and winter, as the temperatures drop I think it gets a bit safer since I think it's even less likely for a mugger to want to walk a mile or two in cold temps and wait 20-30 minutes for a potential target.  

 

However all in all, I think you should be more worried about the bike ninjas that ride the path after dark without lights and in dark clothing.  Even with lights, it's really hard to see them coming.

Permalink Reply by Joe Studer 8.0 mi on September 1, 2011 at 2:16pm

This incident is unfortunate, but not a reason to stop commuting along the LFP.

 

I commute from Hyde Park to the Loop along the LFP year round.  I often (particularly during the fall and winter) am biking after dark.  I've never had a problem like this.

 

That being said, we live in the city.  You have to be aware of what is happening around you.  My advice is to pay attention, listen to your instincts, and if you think something is not right about a situation you see in front of you, avoid that situation.

Permalink Reply by Mike Haring on September 1, 2011 at 2:56pm

I was going to say something about how it wasn't too bad, then I saw this article.

http://www.suntimes.com/7404266-417/cyclist-knocked-off-bike-robbed...

 

Honestly I'd recommend switching your hours, if at all possible.  You'd be surprised how accommodating employers are.  I work 7-4 and have very little traffic in the morning, and I avoid rush hour at night, or if I want to take the LFP, it isn't too crowded.  Plus, as it gets dark earlier and earlier, you'll have more light, which usually=less hoodlums.

 

Permalink Reply by S.Presley☠ on September 1, 2011 at 3:05pm
When ever I see these head lines about the LFP ...I first look to see what time of day it happens, then the area. It is always 9pm on the south side. This sucks for commuters that use the path as a way to get home at night...but I would either ride with someone or find another route.
Permalink Reply by Alan Ledrowski 16.5 on September 1, 2011 at 3:42pm

I commute to U of C and in the past year I have had some issues/run-ins with hoodlums while biking home.  I feel that when its hot out, there is a higher probability that something will happen.  Just being aware of what/who is around you is key.  Once it cools down, there are less people on the path, which is good or bad depending how you look at it.

 

One other thing, the U of C police are pretty good about helping you get home safe.  They are 2nd largest private police force in the world and work with the Chicago Police.  The 1st largest is the Vatican Police.  This is according to the talk we had from the U of C Police.  You can call them and they will tail you until you are safely home.  The patrol from 39th to 64th.  You can get more info here: http://safety-security.uchicago.edu/police/resources.shtml

Permalink Reply by Jessica on September 1, 2011 at 3:44pm
This is why I like living in Indiana... my answer would be to arm and protect yourself.  I'm sure this will raise hackles.  *zips flame suit*
Permalink Reply by Anthony Aicardi on September 1, 2011 at 3:46pm
Bear spray

Jessica said:
This is why I like living in Indiana... my answer would be to arm and protect yourself.  I'm sure this will raise hackles.  *zips flame suit*
Permalink Reply by S on September 1, 2011 at 3:47pm

I think you're selectively remembering things.  It wasn't too long ago that there were headlines about flash mobs and heavy police presence on the LFP by oak street and north ave beaches.  It was the same deal last year as well.  

 

However, if you're talking about dangers on the LFP, the biggest danger by far is crashing due to a negligent cyclist, runner, pedestrian, roller-blader etc.  and not getting robbed.

S.Presley said:

When ever I see these head lines about the LFP ...I first look to see what time of day it happens, then the area. It is always 9pm on the south side. This sucks for commuters that use the path as a way to get home at night...but I would either ride with someone or find another route.
Permalink Reply by Jessica on September 1, 2011 at 3:47pm

That too, would work.  Wasp spray if you'd like a side of neuro damage.

 

Permalink Reply by MagMileMarauder on September 1, 2011 at 3:51pm

 


Jessica said:

This is why I like living in Indiana... my answer would be to arm and protect yourself.  I'm sure this will raise hackles.  *zips flame suit*
Permalink Reply by Jessica on September 1, 2011 at 4:08pm

I'll admit to having not one, but TWO NRA stickers on my car.  All the cars on the street have been broken into but mine.  (And I wouldn't even shoot someone for doing it!  Property is just property, I'm only out to protect myself.  Can't say I wouldn't step outside and confront the thief while armed though.)

 

My mom plastered NRA stickers on her Prius as well, haha.  

 

Let me just say that if stuff starts going down in Chicago, come to my house.  We have enough guns and ammo to protect ourselves for at least 2 weeks, no matter who is trying to come in.  

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