CHICAGO – Baseball is back in Chicago with the White Sox home opener at Guaranteed Rate Field on Thursday, March 28 at 3:10 p.m. Residents and fans are reminded of the residential parking restrictions in effect around the ballpark area for all games and events at the ballpark and increased activity on game days. Fans are also reminded to respect the surrounding community and remain vigilant in crowds and report suspicions of criminal activity to 9-1-1. 

New this year, fans will notice the installation of new bike lanes on 35^th Street. Motorists and pedestrians are reminded that there is a new lane configuration on 35th Street including bike lanes. Motorists are encouraged to avoid 35th Street around the ballpark unless parking in lot D. Expect delays through this area.

Report Suspicious Activity - If You See Something, Say Something

As always, OEMC encourages attendees, ballpark employees, fans as well as residents and businesses to always be aware of surroundings and report any suspicious activity to onsite security or by calling 9-1-1.  We all play a role in staying safe. 

White Sox Opening Day

The White Sox home opener at Guaranteed Rate Field is Thursday, March 28 at 3:10 p.m. when they take on the Detroit Tigers. On Opening Day, parking lots open three hours before the start of the game and gates open two hours before the scheduled first pitch.  For the remaining White Sox home games, gates open 90 minutes prior to first pitch.

Fans are urged to arrive early and should also be mindful to keep sidewalks passable and yield to emergency vehicles. Find more information about visiting the ballpark, visit whitesox.com/ballpark . As it was last year, per the bag policy, single-pocket, clear tote bags (12” x 12” x 6” or smaller), clutch purses (9" x 5" x 2" or smaller) and diaper bags when an infant is present are permitted into the ballpark. No backpacks or other bags are allowed.

Rideshare (Taxis, Limos, Uber, Lyft) for all Home Games/Events:

The rideshare Lot is located in Lot A near Wentworth Ave for pick-up and drop-off, where fans can enter and exit the ballpark via Gate 5. The lot is open until one hour after the conclusion of the game.  

Traffic Plan:

• Please note that street closures and changes to traffic patterns are to be expected on game days. It is strongly recommended that you plan your route before heading to the ballpark to avoid delays.
• Street closures in the area may be implemented to ensure public safety.
• To assist with increased traffic and activity at the ballpark, the Traffic Management Authority (TMA) deploys Traffic Control Aides (TCA’s) on game days.  Please adhere to TCA traffic guidance.
• Parking
• Residential Parking Restrictions are in effect around the ballpark area.  Parking restrictions will be strictly enforced. If your vehicle is towed, call 3-1-1 City Services to obtain assistance in locating your vehicle.
•            Note: Due to a mailing delay, if residents have not received their 2024 Residential Parking Permits, the               2023 permits will be accepted until April 5, 2024.
• If driving to the ballpark during the baseball season, pre-paid parking is strongly encouraged. Fans can purchase tickets in advance at whitesox.com/parking.
• Fans are strongly encouraged to arrive early and avoid delays.
• Follow signage and TCA direction to parking lot entry. 
• Limited day-of-game parking is available in the Credit/Debit Lots (Lots F and L located south of the ballpark). Additional parking will be available in the overflow lot at McCormick Place (Lot B) with free shuttle service from the overflow lot to the ballpark.
• Parking transactions are ONLY conducted by credit card with official staff within lots.

Alcohol, Peddling and Parking Enforcement

Throughout the season, the Chicago Police Department stresses the strict enforcement of public intoxication ordinances and DUI laws, as well as City and State liquor laws that prohibit over-serving and serving alcohol to minors. Additionally, the peddling of goods without a license and the selling or soliciting the sale of residential parking passes is illegal. The Chicago Police will have an increased presence around Guaranteed Rate Field to ensure public safety on game days. 

Public Transportation

Public transportation is recommended. Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers lots of options for getting to the game and extra service on opening game days.

• CTA Red Line stops near the ballpark at the Sox-35^th St. station and the Green Line is just (2) blocks farther east at the 35^th Street Station. For CTA Train and Bus information, visit www.transitchicago.com.
• A Metra stop is located at 35^th St., just east of the Dan Ryan Expressway, along the Rock Island line.

Chicago OEMC App

Downloading the Chicago OEMC app is a great way to get emergency alerts, check CTA Tracker information, monitor game day weather reports and radar, see street closures for events and even share your walk with a friend through CHI Safe Walk - all in one place.  Download the Chicago OEMC App public safety tool providing Safe Chicago information, preparedness tips and more in the palm of your hand. The app is available through the Apple App and Google Play stores. To immediately download, click HERE or visit the website Chicago.gov/oemc.