BROADVIEW (WBBM Newsradio) -- The ICE facility in the western suburbs that's become the focus of protests over the Trump Administration's immigration policy appears to be getting ready for dozens more detainees.
That's the assessment of four members of Chicago's Congressional delegation, who showed up Monday morning outside the ICE facility, 1930 Beach St., for what they said was an unannounced tour of the building.
Afterward, Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-3rd District) described the facility as a "cold place of detention," despite the assertion from ICE administrators that it's intended for use as a processing facility.
"This was something I wish I could un-see," said Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-1st District), who described small holding rooms, bathroom facilities with no privacy, and a single closet-like room where detainees can meet with legal counsel.
"It was helpful for us to visualize what it will look like once they're actually at the capacity," said Rep. Ramirez. "Using the bathroom as someone is standing next to you -- those are the conditions at this location."
Last month, west suburban Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-14th District) became the first sitting member of Congress in years to tour the facility, by virtue of her role on the Appropriations Committee. This latest tour happened following a judge's order affirming that members of Congress have the right to visit such facilities unannounced.
The members touring the facility say they were told workers are expecting to process as many as 85 people at a time when "Operation Midway Blitz" becomes more active, and that would require more workers in an already tight space.
All four members of Congress are pledging to return to make sure that the center here is following the law.
"We will continue to hold these people responsible," said Rep. Jesus "Chuy" Garcia (D-4th District), who also was on the tour. They were joined by retiring Rep. Danny Davis (D-7th District).