Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO — The City of Chicago and NASCAR officials have announced that pre-race activities for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race will commence on Monday, June 10. This event, scheduled for July 6–7, 2024, marks the second year that Chicago will host the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series street races.

Based on experiences from last year, NASCAR and city officials have managed to reduce the course build time by six days, bringing it down to 19 days in 2024 from 25 days in 2023. Officials urge residents and visitors to be mindful of traffic impacts and safety measures during this period.

As preparations are made for the race, including assembling and disassembling the course and viewing structures, efforts are being taken to minimize disruptions caused by street closures, parking restrictions, reroutes, and traffic. Access to businesses and residences will remain open throughout this period.

For detailed information about street closures, parking restrictions, alternative routes, and more, residents can visit NASCARChicago.com/localinfo/, email info@nascarchicago.com or view related videos online.

Significant street closures will occur during race weekend on Saturday, July 6 and Sunday, July 7. Streets with local access only for residents and businesses will be designated. Sidewalks will remain open throughout the set-up (June 10 – July 18). Alternative routes may be provided if necessary.

The Chicago Park District aims to maintain public access during the event by keeping over half of Grant Park open. Popular features such as Buckingham Fountain, Butler Field, and Lower Hutchinson Field will remain accessible with minimal restrictions.

NASCAR is also organizing free festival activities at Butler Field on July 6-7 to engage the public without an admission fee. Maggie Daley Park, Cancer Survivor’s Garden, and Museum Campus will stay open throughout the event.

Residents are encouraged to use public transportation due to expected heavy traffic around Grant Park and The Loop. Both CTA and Metra will offer additional services for ease of travel during race weekend. For more details on transit options visit TransitChicago.com or Metra.com.

The Office of Emergency Management Communications (OEMC) advises downloading their app for updates on street closures and other event-related information available through Apple App Store or Google Play Store. They emphasize vigilance under their "If You See Something Say Something" campaign urging people to report suspicious activity immediately either by notifying onsite security or calling 9-1-1.

Public safety measures include pole markers within Grant Park for location identification in emergencies. These markers can also serve as meeting points if attendees become separated from their groups.

Traffic Control Aides (TCAs) will manage traffic flow around Grant Park during pre-race activities leading up to race weekend. OEMC will monitor events closely issuing alerts as needed via social media platforms using hashtags #ChicagoOEMC or through their website at Chicago.gov/OEMC.

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