2012 - MLB.com

2012
protection report
tRaffIC maNaGEmENt autHORIty
The Office of Emergency Management and Communication’s Traffic Management Authority was
again instrumental in working with the Cubs and the community to reduce traffic congestion
and coordinate traffic flow during events. The flexibility of TMA personnel is key to addressing
shifting traffic needs. The number of TMA personnel increased or decreased as attendance
varied and traffic patterns changed. Typically 48-49 traffic aides are posted in the streets around
Wrigley Field to control vehicular traffic for event dates. The Cubs reimburse the City of Chicago
for the cost of TMA traffic aides. In 2012, the total payment through June was $261,000 with a
projected yearly total of $560,000.
The following traffic pattern ideas have been offered by neighbors and businesses during the
course of the season. Each should be evaluated as a way to determine best practices to address
Cubs-related traffic around Wrigley Field:
• Stop traffic on Sheffield Avenue for all games beginning when ballpark gates open two
hours prior to game time.
• Stop northbound traffic on Racine Avenue (from Addison Street to Grace Street) for 30
minutes after each game. Objective: Help keep northbound Clark Street clear for bus
traffic.
• Night games — Coordinate traffic signals on Irving Park Road westbound to Western
Avenue after games. Objective: Keep westbound Irving Park Road available for cars
headed to the expressway.
• Night games and weekend games — Facilitate a bus lane on northbound Clark Street
from Waveland Avenue to Irving Park Road. Objective: Smooth post-game traffic flow.
• Stoplights at the intersection of Clark Street with both School and Roscoe Streets to
replace the stop signs.
The City of Chicago implemented an offset centerline on westbound Irving Park Road between
Clark Street and Ashland Avenue. The new striping allows two lanes of westbound traffic at all
times and should help facilitate traffic exiting the area after ballpark events. The Cubs supported
this effort. The two westbound lanes are an asset to traffic operations.
PROmOtION Of altERNatE
tRaNSPORtatION
The Chicago Cubs continue to use valuable television and radio broadcast time and print
advertising to promote public transportation and alternate means of getting to the ballpark,
including CTA, Pace, the remote parking lot at DeVry University and the bike valet operation.
Brochures mentioning these services have been printed and distributed for the past eight years.
the following assisted with traffic issues in 2012, promoting alternate means of transportation
and other ways to reach the Friendly confines:
• In-game announcements during Cubs television and radio broadcasts.
• Promotion of CTA service on Wrigley Field scoreboard.
• In-park announcements during games.
• Detailed information available at all times on www.cubs.com.
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