The start of more than two dozen street closures and parking restrictions for the upcoming 2024 NASCAR Chicago Street Race took effect overnight, almost one month before the scheduled start of race weekend.
According to the Chicago Department of Transportation, Ida B. Wells Drive is now closed between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive, and parking restrictions are in effect along southbound Columbus Drive between Jackson Drive and Balboa Drive. The closures and restrictions, which took effect at midnight, will allow for construction to commence at the main grandstand on the circuit, officials noted.
The closures come as Chicago officials tout a shortened build-out period for the race, reducing it from 25 days in 2023 to 19. Additional closures will begin June 19, officials said, with the bulk of closures set to start June 27, according to officials.
By the time the race arrives on July 6 and 7, Columbus Drive, Michigan Avenue and DuSable Lake Shore Drive will all be experiencing significant closures. Officials hope to reopen those roadways by 6 a.m. on July 8.
Last year’s race was the first on the 2.2-mile circuit, with rain cutting the Loop 121 and Grant Park 220 short. The Xfinity Series race was won by Cole Custer, who led all 25 laps before the race was called off due to inclement weather.
The Cup Series race was won by Shane van Gisbergen, who captured the victory in overtime as the race was cut short due to darkness.
NASCAR Chicago Street Race
A full list of street closures for this year’s edition of the race can be found here. All teardown for the NASCAR race is expected to be completed by July 18.
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