Be advised. If you’re a Chicago driver, you may run into some street and lane closures, delays and parking restrictions leading up to Sunday’s Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
The marathon is expected to bring more than 40,000 runners and 2 million spectators through 29 neighborhoods. So with thousands of spectators and participants covering the 26.2-mile route, drivers traveling throughout downtown and the various neighborhoods should expect delays, allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes.
According to a press release sent out by the City of Chicago, some street and lane closures are already in place in the Grant Park area, including Balbo Drive from Columbus Drive to Lake Shore Drive.
Additional street closures near the marathon start/finish line include:
>> Jackson Blvd. is closed from Columbus Drive to Lake Shore Drive
>> Columbus Drive closures began Thursday. A full closure will be implemented from Roosevelt Road to Monroe by Friday.
>> By Saturday, expect additional Grant Park street closures on Columbus Drive, Balbo Drive, Congress Parkway, Jackson Blvd. and Monroe Street.
Street closures along the route will begin at approximately 7 a.m. on Sunday and are anticipated to be reopened by 4:30 p.m.
And if you want to avoid having your vehicle towed, we’d recommend adhering to the parking restrictions along the course. But if, for some reason, you missed a “No Parking Zone” sign, you can call 3-1-1 to locate your towed vehicle.
If you want to skip the whole driving thing all together, Chicago Marathon officials encourage taking public transportation if you’re heading to the marathon or areas impacted by it. Read RedEye’s full guide to CTA transit during the marathon here
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