The Village of Broadview is preparing for a demonstration expected to draw between 2,000 and 5,000 participants on Saturday near the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement processing center.
The "No Kings Protest", which will to take place from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., includes significant public safety preparations and temporary road closures.
Given the anticipated size of the demonstration, Broadview officials are coordinating closely with state, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of residents, businesses, demonstrators, and first responders.
"Village officials, in coordination with regional public safety agencies, have maintained ongoing communication with the event organizer, Carlos Alvarez-Aranyos, through in-person meetings and written correspondence to support preparedness and public safety," said Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson. "I appreciate Mr. Alvarez-Aranyos' cooperation and open dialogue throughout this process and his commitment to facilitate a peaceful First Amendment demonstration that aims to reinforce the message that the United States is a democracy committed to the rule of law, and not the rule of kings or tyrants.”
The Broadview Police Department will be working in conjunction with the Illinois State Police, Cook County Sheriff's Police, the Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System, and the Northern Illinois Police Alarm System to maintain order and security throughout the event.
To accommodate the expected crowds and ensure public safety, multiple road closures will be implemented beginning as early as 7:00 a.m. on Saturday. The following closures will be in effect:
- Closure of the I-290 southbound ramp at 25th Avenue
- No access from Indian Joe Road to Lexington Street
- Closure of westbound traffic on Lexington Street from 25th Avenue
Additionally, if crowd movement requires further safety measures, 25th Avenue may be closed between Lexington Street and Roosevelt Road.
Mayor Thompson is encouraging motorists to plan alternate routes and allow for additional travel time during the demonstration hours, and residents are advised to complete necessary errands outside the affected timeframe when possible.
“The Village of Broadview remains committed to protecting the constitutional rights of peaceful assembly while prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of all community members,” said Thompson.