Chicago Commission Approves Cubs Parking Expansion

The plan increases lot capacity to 800 spaces to accommodate visitors for the upcoming 2027 All-Star Game at Wrigley Field.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in National Parks

Isometric editorial illustration of a paved lot and row of trees, representing urban planning and infrastructure development in Chicago. — The Chicago Plan Commission approved the expansion of the Cubs' parking lot to 800 spaces to support visitors during the 2027 All-Star Game. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Chicago Plan Commission has officially approved the expansion of the Cubs' parking lot at 1114 W. Grace St. to a total of 800 spaces. This development adds 112 new spots to the existing 688-space facility to better serve fans.

Why it matters

The Cubs cited a need for additional parking to handle the expected influx of visitors during the 2027 All-Star Game. The project also includes a $500,000 commitment from the organization for renovations and landscaping at Kelly Park.

The expansion at the corner of Racine Avenue and Grace Street adds 112 new parking spaces to the site. The plan includes the addition of 33 new trees to the parking lot area.

The players

Chicago Plan Commission

This municipal body is responsible for reviewing and approving major land use and development projects across the city.

Cubs

The professional baseball organization owns and operates Wrigley Field and manages the surrounding infrastructure.

The details

The development replaces the former House of the Good Shepherd building, which was demolished following a city permit issued in April 2026. Developers intend to preserve existing trees at the site while incorporating new landscaping to minimize the project's visual impact.

April 20, 2026: City issued demolition permit for the former shelter building.
May 2026: Demolition work began at the site.
October 2026: The Plan Commission granted approval for the lot expansion.
November 2026: Construction is scheduled to commence.
May 2027: The expansion project is expected to reach completion.

Travel Outlook

This project reflects a strategic effort by the organization to balance private vehicle access with the established preference for public transit among stadium attendees. The expansion positions the facility to manage the temporary surge in visitor traffic typically associated with major league showcase events.

Game attendees should anticipate construction activity at the corner of Racine and Grace beginning this November. While the additional spaces are intended to ease parking shortages, those visiting the stadium are encouraged to consider public transit, which currently accommodates over half of the fanbase.

The takeaway

The project illustrates the logistics required to host large-scale athletic events in dense urban neighborhoods. Residents and visitors should plan for local traffic adjustments during the construction phase through next spring.