Ford City Mall enacting new escort policy for teens

Ford City Mall is implementing a new policy in February that will require all teens to be supervised by an adult on weekend evenings, the Southwest Side mall announced last week.

The policy will require anyone younger than 18 to be accompanied by a parent or another adult who is at least 21 years old, from 6 p.m. to until the mall closes at 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, the mall said in a release.

“We appreciate our teenage shoppers, but we want to provide a family-friendly, inviting atmosphere for all shoppers,” General Manager Tracy Munno said.

Adults can supervise up to four youths, and must remain with them at all times, Munno said. Teens without supervision and anyone without a proper ID could be asked to leave.

The new policy is part of a redevelopment plan by the new owners of Ford City Mall, and has been in the works since early 2014, the statement said. It takes effect Feb. 13.

“The new owners of Ford City Mall have made it a priority to establish and maintain a safe and secure shopping environment for its customers,” Munno said.

Other safety measures have already been put into place, including a Chicago Police substation in the building, better lighting in the parking lot, and increased patrols.

The mall at 7601 S. Cicero includes more than 130 stores and a 14-screen AMC Theatre complex.