Permit denied for Chicago River swim fundraiser

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The city has denied a permit for a fundraising swim in the Chicago River that’s being planned for September 22.

This comes after a City Council committee advanced an ordinance that would allow permit denials for health or safety reasons.

A total of 500 people registered for the swim.

“While the City of Chicago recognizes the positive nature of the open water swimming event in the Chicago River, the proposed route and concentration of swimmers raised significant safety concerns for participants, first responders, and the general public,” a statement from the city read.

The planned route was to have swimmers start in the South Branch of the Chicago River and go nearly 2.5 miles to Clark Street and the Riverwalk.

“While we are disappointed, we are hopeful that we will have the opportunity to address” the city’s “concerns and demonstrate the strength of our comprehensive safety plan,” the organizer, Doug McConnell with A Long Swim said.

“We are optimistic that once we do, we will secure the necessary approvals and proceed with the event.”

The city said that an alternative route was offered to organizers.

A Long Swim is dedicated to raising money for ALS research, as well as providing swim lessons to 2,000 children in underserved communities.

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