Watch CBS News

Alderman Takes Matters Into His Own Hands To Fill Potholes

CHICAGO (CBS) -- The saying goes, "If you want something done right, you better do it yourself."

That's what the alderman of the 22nd ward is doing when it comes to filling potholes on the Southwest Side.

CBS 2's Derrick Blakley the city's so slow to fill the potholes, Ald. Ricardo Munoz (22nd) is taking matters, and a shovel, into his own hands.

"For it to be late September and we're not getting to potholes reported last April, May, and June it's ridiculous and that's why we're doing this," said Alderman Munoz.

Munoz says the streets are bad enough, with more than 80 requests for potholes not filled, but he says the alleys are even worse with 150 reported potholes waiting for asphalt.

Businessman Orlando Ramirez says he's tired of waiting for the city to act.

"I live here so I will cover it if they could just bring me the stuff I'll cover it," he said.

Mayor Emanuel pointed to the city's plan to pave 355 miles of streets this year.

"An old road, you are going to get the degradation of the potholes and I want to make sure the neighborhood streets are receive the attention," he said.

Munoz says repaving's great, but the potholes are still waiting.

Munoz says he's filled about 40 potholes and fully admits it's a stunt.

A city spokesman says a pothole crew was working in the 22nd Ward Wednesday and they'll turn to the alleys when the streets are done.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.