CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) -
The upcoming NATO Summit will make traveling downtown difficult for a few days due to all the parking restrictions and closures.
Local, State and Federal law enforcement agencies worked together to create a security and transportation plan.
South Loop residents will notice the first of the security changes for NATO. Beginning 6 a.m., Sunday, May 13, no parking will be allowed on either side of Indiana between Cermak and 24th. But, that's just the beginning.
If you're planning on driving into the Loop, be prepared for some big closures which are scheduled to go into affect late next week and won't reopen until the evening of Monday, May 21.
North and Southbound Lake Shore Drive will be closed between Balbo and 39th starting Thursday, both directions of the Stevenson will shut down from the Dan Ryan to Lake Shore Drive, as well as Columbus between Balbo and McFetridge and Roosevelt from Michigan to Lake Shore Drive.
In addition to those major roadways closing there will be a variety of other streets blocked around the city.
Expect rolling closures along the Kennedy Expressway, Ohio and Ontario as a hundred or more motorcades move between O'Hare and downtown.
Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communications is aware of the inconveniences the closures will cause drivers, but say they're necessary for security purposes.
Here are some alternates you can try to help you avoid the closures.
If you need to reroute around the Lake Shore Drive closure which begins next Thursday here are a couple of choices. To head north, you can exit at 47th and head west to the Dan Ryan or try exiting at Pershing, but it is marked Oakwood on Lake Shore Drive then it turns into Pershing a few blocks west as you make your way to the Ryan.
The Stevenson options are either the Kennedy or the Dan Ryan depending on which direction you're headed. You can use the local streets but be prepared that as you approach dowtown there can be unannounced closures.
Now, let's talk trains.
According to security officials, METRA and CTA will remain open but definitely plan for delays, especially if your ride takes you near McCormick Place.
Trains will not stop at McCormick Place on May 20 or May 21. Plus, other stations may be closed as needed.
The possible traffic headaches caused by the NATO closures can be avoided with a little planning, but the one thing to keep in mind is the Secret Service can make any changes they feel are necessary at a moments notice.
Stay tuned to Fox Chicago because we will bring you any updated information as it becomes available.
SEE VEHICLE AND PEDESTRIAN RESTRICTION MAP BELOW
NATO Summit Road Closures
NATO Summit Alternative Routes
