Aldermen consider semi-peekaboo loos to provide more public restrooms

Toilet sign Photo credit Getty Images

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Chicago aldermen are considering an ordinance that would begin expanding the number of public bathrooms across the city.

The City Council’s Health Committee took testimony — but didn’t vote on — a proposed pilot program to bring more restrooms.

Ald. Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez (33rd), a co-sponsor of the ordinance, said bathrooms are a basic human right for everyone, from parents with children to homeless people living on the streets.

Evan Madden of Portland Loo said his company’s program in Washington state uses free-standing structures that allow people to partly see inside, to address public safety concerns.

He said the loos are designed for one purpose: for people to use as bathrooms. The design prevents or discourages people from doing things they are not supposed to do, such as dealing drugs, Madden said.

Ald. Daniel LaSpata of the 1st Ward is the measure’s other co-sponsor. He suggested there could also be efforts to get existing businesses to open their restrooms to the public.