Chicago’s iconic “Rat Hole” has been removed and preserved following numerous complaints from neighbors about the increased activity it attracted to their street.
Officials from the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced that the famous sidewalk indentation, shaped like a rodent, was successfully removed and preserved on Wednesday morning.
The slab of sidewalk, located in the 1900 block of West Roscoe Street, was carefully extracted before being stored temporarily while plans for its future display are determined.
Photos from the scene captured CDOT workers removing the slab and refilling it with cement, marking the end of an era for enthusiasts of the unique landmark. Despite its removal, the fate of the beloved imprint remains uncertain.
Paul Sajovec, chief of staff for 32nd Ward Ald. Scott Waguespack, stated that discussions are underway regarding what should be done with the preserved “Rat Hole.” He emphasized that it is considered a piece of city infrastructure and thus warrants careful consideration for its next location.
The “Rat Hole” gained viral fame in January, drawing attention from across the city and beyond. What started as a quirky sidewalk dent quickly transformed into an offbeat tourist attraction, attracting crowds and even inspiring a makeshift shrine at the site.
However, the sudden influx of visitors led to frustration among local residents, who voiced concerns about the litter and disturbances caused by the attraction. Despite its popularity, the “Rat Hole” had been filled in and dug out multiple times since January, prompting CDOT to assess its removal.
Amidst the controversy, one thing remains clear: the spirit of the “Chicago Rat Hole” lives on, as fans took to social media to express their sentiments about its removal. While its future remains uncertain, its legacy as a beloved and quirky Chicago landmark endures.