As the city prepares to install paid parking at Montrose Beach and Harbor, a group that advocates for park users calls the move unfair to the city's low-income residents.
Juanita Irizarry, executive director of Friends of the Parks, said removing free parking spots at Montrose will take away an affordable option to enjoy the lakefront that low-income families depend on.
"A lot of families need free outlets for recreation," she said.
She suggests a possible alternative: putting paid parking boxes in wealthier neighborhoods along the lakefront.
The Lightfoot administration hopes to help balance the city's budget with increased revenue from the parking fees.
