Sangamon Sun

With the thrilling 2024 NASCAR Chicago Street Race scheduled for July 6-7 in downtown Chicago, many preparations are needed in the busy city before the start of the event. Grant Park 165 is the second annual NASCAR Cup Series hosted through the streets of Chicago where everyday life occurs. What does this mean for the lives of Chicagoans?

Multiple road closures and parking restrictions around Congress Circle and Ida B. Wells Drive from Michigan Avenue to Columbus Drive are currently in place in preparation for the race. It is predicted that the closures and restrictions will be in place until July 18.

In a recent online survey conducted by The Harris Poll for Chicago residents, 39% of Chicago residents believe that hosting large events such as the NASCAR Street Race is beneficial to the city, while 32% believe it is an inconvenience. Similarly, only 24% of survey respondents think that this event is good for residents, while only 21% are interested in attending.

The City of Chicago and NASCAR officials have worked diligently to develop a strategic plan to benefit both the race and everyday life routes for commuters or visitors. To aid with inconveniences caused by road closures and detours, Jose Tirado, Executive Director of the Office of Emergency Management and Communications, has been working on ways to minimize disruptions to those residing or visiting Chicago. Allowances have already been declared that certain places such as Maggie Daley Park, Cancer Survivor’s Garden, and Museum Campus will remain open as normal during this busy time. Multiple pedestrian pathways such as Columbus Underpass and the Chicago Lakefront Bicycle Path will be open to ensure pedestrian traffic can flow easier as well. All businesses and residents will be accessible during preparation, during the event, and during takedown.

Chicago is setting its residents and visitors up for a much more enjoyable NASCAR Street Race period.