Chicago residents and visitors should prepare for significant traffic and crowd impacts this Thursday, March 26, as the Chicago Cubs host the Washington Nationals in their home opener at Wrigley Field, beginning at 1:20 p.m. The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is advising everyone to expect increased congestion and parking limitations in the area and to report any suspicious activity by calling 9-1-1.
Preparations for Baseball Season
City officials have been proactively planning for baseball season, aiming to minimize traffic disruptions and ensure public safety throughout the season. A Wrigley Field Advisory community meeting was held in February, bringing together city agencies, 44th Ward Alderman Bennett Lawson, and the Chicago Cubs to address neighborhood concerns and enhance safety measures.
Fans planning to attend the game are encouraged to arrive early to allow ample time for security screenings. Gates will open two hours before the first pitch on Opening Day, as well as for Saturday games and special occasions. Pedestrians are reminded to keep sidewalks clear and yield to emergency vehicles.
Navigating Wrigleyville
Those traveling to Wrigley Field are urged to respect the surrounding neighborhood and businesses, and to adhere to all parking restrictions and public safety guidelines. Fans should familiarize themselves with the park’s evacuation and sheltering procedures in case of severe weather or other unforeseen events.
Rideshare drop-off and pick-up locations will be on Addison St. Between Broadway and Halsted Street, and on Irving Park Rd between Clark Street and Seminary Avenue. Restrictions will begin two hours before the game and continue one hour after its conclusion. Accessible drop-off/pick-up is available on the east curb of Clark Street, coordinated via Racine Avenue and Patterson Street during street closures.
Traffic control measures will include restrictions on truck access 90 minutes before the game and for up to one hour after, as well as potential street closures and vehicle diversions. The Traffic Management Authority (TMA) will deploy Traffic Control Aides (TCA’s) to assist with traffic flow.
Fans can report issues within the ballpark via text message by sending the keyword “Friendly” to 773-839-0282. The Cubs also offer a hotline, 866-4-CPD-TOW, for neighborhood residents to report non-emergency issues during games.
Parking and Emergency Resources
LV2 permit parking restrictions will be in effect for all games, concerts, and events at Wrigley Field. A free remote parking lot is available at 4650 N. Clarendon Ave., with free shuttle service beginning two hours before first pitch. Free bicycle valet service is also available near the CTA Red Line stop on Addison Street.
The Chicago OEMC app provides emergency alerts, CTA tracker information, weather updates, and street closure notifications. Residents and businesses can sign up for emergency alerts through Notify Chicago at notifychicago.org, CHILAKE by texting “CHILAKE” to 7-8-0-1-5, and CHIBIZ by texting “CHIBIZ” to 6-7-2-8-3.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Cubs home opener?
The Chicago Cubs home opener is Thursday, March 26 at 1:20 p.m. Against the Washington Nationals.
How can fans report issues at Wrigley Field?
Fans can report issues within the ballpark by texting the keyword “Friendly” to 773-839-0282.
What parking options are available?
LV2 permit parking restrictions are in effect, and a free remote parking lot is available at 4650 N. Clarendon Ave. Free bicycle valet service is also offered.
As the Cubs begin their season, how do you think the city’s preparations will impact the experience for both fans and local residents?
