Preparations are intensifying for the highly anticipated NASCAR Chicago Street Race, with significant street closures set to impact commuters in the area. The race weekend features the Xfinity Series’ Loop 110 on Saturday and the Cup Series’ Grant Park 165 on Sunday, showcasing some of the best drivers in the world racing through the vibrant streets of Chicago.
As part of the race preparations, Chicago officials have announced several closures starting with Roosevelt Road, which will shut down at 10 p.m. on Wednesday between Michigan Avenue and DuSable Lake Shore Drive. This will be followed by the closure of southbound DuSable Lake Shore Drive between Randolph and McFetridge just two hours later, affecting a critical north-south traffic route.
On Thursday night at 10 p.m., additional closures will begin to take effect. These include the closure of Michigan Avenue between Roosevelt Road and Jackson Drive, as well as northbound DuSable Lake Shore Drive between McFetridge and Randolph. Other streets that will also see closures during the race weekend include Monroe Street, Ida B. Wells Drive, Indiana Avenue, Post Place, and Garvey Court, with a full list available on the OEMC website.
After the races conclude, city crews are committed to swiftly reopening the major thoroughfares, with a focus on DuSable Lake Shore Drive and Michigan Avenue. Cleanup efforts are expected to wrap up within a week, ensuring that the city can return to normalcy as quickly as possible.
The excitement surrounding the NASCAR Chicago Street Race not only highlights the city’s vibrant culture but also offers a boost to local businesses and tourism during the event. As the weekend approaches, Chicagoans and visitors alike are encouraged to plan their travel accordingly amid the closures.
This event marks a significant moment for the city, showcasing its streets to a nationwide audience and allowing fans to experience the thrill of NASCAR in a unique urban setting.