Chicago City Wire

The upcoming NASCAR Chicago Street Race in Grant Park, scheduled for July 5-6, 2025, will involve reduced setup and breakdown times compared to previous years, according to a joint announcement by the City of Chicago and NASCAR. Based on efficiencies from preceding events, the total park build duration has been decreased to 25 days, a 42% reduction from the first race in 2023.

Frank Velez, Acting Executive Director of the Office of Emergency Management and Communications, stated, “The City of Chicago has been working with NASCAR in the planning and execution of the 2025 race to further minimize the impact to residents and visitors.” Safety remains a priority, with the OEMC monitoring activities before, during, and after the race.

Key adjustments include changes to park seating and hospitality areas, aimed at maintaining public access to Grant Park. The course construction will commence 16 days prior to the event, 10 days later than the previous year, resulting in an 18-day traffic impact, a reduction from past years.

Critical streets near Grant Park will experience closures starting June 19, but access for businesses and residents will be maintained throughout the event. Specific closures will affect streets such as Balbo Dr., Columbus Dr., and DuSable Lake Shore Dr., with accommodations for pedestrian routes and recommendations for alternative routes and public transportation to alleviate congestion.

OEMC has prompted the community to use public transport and be vigilant of their surroundings. Emergency alerts and notifications will be issued when necessary. Public safety measures are highlighted, including pole markers for emergencies, and public access areas like Maggie Daley Park and Museum Campus will remain open.

For detailed information on street closures, parking restrictions, and safety measures, residents are advised to visit nascarchicago.com/localinfo or the OEMC website.