Several rounds of downtown traffic woes have already begun.
As crews put the finishing touches on the city to turn it into Draft Town, downtown traffic congestion begins days ahead of the NFL Draft.
Traffic around Grant Park and Roosevelt University is being diverted to make way for Draft events happening Thursday through Saturday. The city’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) recommends setting aside extra time and considering alternate routes due to expected delays.
Find details below about street closures this week:
• Columbus between Balbo and Jackson – Monday, April 27, at 6 a.m. until May 4
• Michigan Avenue between Balbo and Jackson – Thursday, April 30, from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
• Wabash between Harrison and Jackson – Thursday, April 30, from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
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• Van Buren between Michigan and State – Thursday, April 30, from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
• Congress Parkway between Michigan and State – Thursday, April 30, from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
In addition to full road closures, some lane reductions or temporary sidewalk closures will also occur.
“No Parking Zones” signs will be posted around Grant Park to inform drivers of parking restrictions. OEMC officials said parking will be strictly enforced and illegally parked cars will be subject to towing.
The 2015 NFL Draft will host Selection Square, home of 32 team draft tables, in Congress Plaza and Draft Town in Grant Park from Thursday to Saturday.
Grant Park will be transformed into the free, fan-friendly festival Draft Town for three days. Draft Town will open to the public Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
This year’s NFL Draft marks the first time the draft is being held outside of New York City since 1964.
