Chicago Cubs Home Opener Set for March 26th, Fans Advised to Plan for Crowds
CHICAGO – The Chicago Cubs will kick off their home season on Thursday, March 26th, at 1:20 p.m. Against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field. City officials are preparing for significant crowds and are advising fans, residents, and businesses to anticipate traffic impacts and parking restrictions. The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is urging everyone to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to 9-1-1.
Traffic and Transportation
Motorists in the area surrounding Wrigley Field should prepare for traffic slowdowns and potential street closures implemented by public safety officials. Truck access will be restricted 90 minutes before the game and will remain in effect until pedestrian flow returns to normal. Designated rideshare drop-off and pick-up locations will be on Addison Street between Broadway and Halsted Street, and on Irving Park Road between Clark Street and Seminary Avenue. Restrictions initiate two hours before the game and last one hour after its conclusion. Accessible drop-off/pick-up is available on the east curb of Clark Street (Patterson Street to Waveland Avenue), coordinated via Racine Avenue and Patterson Street during Clark Street closures.
Pedicabs are prohibited from operating within the boundaries of Grace to Newport, and Halsted to Racine during game/concert/event restrictions.
Public transportation is strongly encouraged. For CTA train and bus information, visit www.transitchicago.com.
Parking Restrictions
LV2 permit parking restrictions will be in effect for all games, concerts, and events at Wrigley Field throughout the season, not just night games. Restrictions are from 5 p.m. To 10 p.m. Vehicles violating parking restrictions will be towed; owners can locate their vehicles by calling 3-1-1 City Services.
Free remote parking is available at 4650 N. Clarendon Ave., Chicago, IL 60640, accessed from Irving Park Road. Free shuttles will run between the lot and Wrigley Field, beginning two hours before first pitch and continuing for one hour after the game. The drop-off/pick-up point for the shuttles is on Irving Park Road between Clark Street and Seminary Avenue.
Free bicycle valet service is available east of the main entrance to the CTA Red Line stop on Addison Street, three hours before the game and ending one hour after the event.
Safety and Security
The city has coordinated with the Chicago Cubs and 44th Ward Alderman Bennett Lawson to enhance public safety around the ballpark. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for security screenings. More information about the screening process is available at cubs.com/security.
The OEMC reminds the public to be aware of their surroundings and report suspicious activity to onsite security or by calling 9-1-1. The “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign emphasizes the importance of reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement. For public safety information and tips, visit Chicago.gov/OEMC.
STOP THE BLEED® Safe Chicago Kits are located throughout Wrigley Field for emergency bleeding situations. These kits include a QR code linking to an online STOP THE BLEED® course.
Communication and Resources
The Cubs hotline, 866-4-CPD-TOW, is operational before, during, and after games to assist neighborhood residents with non-emergency issues. For emergencies, call 9-1-1.
Fans can follow the Cubs on social media (@Cubs) for the latest information and updates.
Residents and businesses can sign up for emergency alerts at notifychicago.org. Lakefront notices can be received by texting “CHILAKE” to 7-8-0-1-5, and business updates by texting “CHIBIZ” to 6-7-2-8-3.
The Wrigley Field fan text messaging service allows fans to report issues within the park by texting “Friendly” to 773-839-0282, including location and a description of the issue.
Military Flyover
A military flyover by 4 USMC F/A-18 Hornets from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 (VMFA-112) is scheduled for approximately 1:02 p.m. Before the start of the game.
Related reading