This morning there was a Cook County Sherriff's bus parked in the parking lot of the Jewel on Broadway at Berwyn a few feet away from a CTA maintance van. A group of 10-20 men were dressed in coveralls and bright orange vests that said 
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Wednesday, April 6, 2011
What is SWAP?
This morning there was a Cook County Sherriff's bus parked in the parking lot of the Jewel on Broadway at Berwyn a few feet away from a CTA maintance van. A group of 10-20 men were dressed in coveralls and bright orange vests that said 
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are you sure it said swat? I found this about a program called SWAP: http://www.cookcountysheriff.org/departments/departments_dcsi_swap.html
its not swat.. its swaP and its a work release program. Usually if they're on parole or owe community service.
Well that makes more sense! Thanks
Stands for Sheriffs Work Alternative Program. As mentioned these people chose to do this form of community service to avoid minimal jail sentences or large fines. Driving without insurance will get you 30 days of SWAP.
Primary duties are to clean up particular areas. Scraping gum off of "L" platforms etc.
I remember seeing SWAP inmates cleaning up Addison station on the Red Line years ago. It's been going on for a while.
hopefully they will clean the area across from the cta entrance, it is piled with clothing and abandoned items and is scary!
erika, i totally know what you're talking about. I wonder who controls that area. it is this super creepy fenced in area with just piles of dirty clothes and boxes. I'm thinkin the cleaners next door might be leaving clothes for people which is admirable but maybe being done the wrong way?
In regards to the trashy area under the tracks across from the station entrance, the cleaner there just vacated that space. I imagine they just dumped everything they didn't want there. I agree that it's an eyesore, and I hope it's gone soon!
I called 311 about a person who had taken up "residency" under the EL by 1120 W Berwyn(next to the cleaners, which is now closed). They must have been there to clean it up. Don't know if any of you saw this but it was a complete mess. The wrought iron gate had been broken open and some one had what looked like all their belonging in that area under the EL. Thanks to 311 and 911 for getting on this:)
People doing SWAP are NOT inmates. I repeat NOT inmates. They are people who have been convicted of a crime and have been offered this work program as an alternative to minimal jail time.
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