Cubs Push to Add 259 Parking Spaces Near Wrigley Field — And the Neighborhood Has Thoughts

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Wrigleyville ·

A fresh debate is brewing in Wrigleyville, and it has nothing to do with the standings. The Chicago Cubs are seeking city approval to significantly expand their team-owned Camry Lot near Wrigley Field — and the proposal is sparking a lively community conversation just in time for Opening Day.

The team wants to add 259 parking spaces to the Camry Lot, located at the corner of Racine Avenue and Grace Street, which currently holds 688 spaces. The expansion became possible after Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago sold its neighboring Grace Street property — formerly home to the House of the Good Shepherd shelter — to the Cubs. Cubs officials, including Director of Government and Community Affairs Will McIntee, framed the project as a way to manage existing demand rather than attract more drivers. McIntee noted that roughly 37 percent of fans travel to games by car, while the majority walks, bikes, or takes public transit. The team's core argument: more team-controlled spaces means fewer fans spilling onto residential streets and snapping up neighborhood permit parking spots — a longtime frustration for locals.

But not everyone is convinced. Some Lakeview residents pushed back this week, questioning traffic impacts, environmental considerations, and whether the newly acquired property might be better used for housing or other community development. The discussion grew spirited at times, with neighbors pressing Cubs executives on the finer details. With Opening Day on March 26 just around the corner, this conversation is only getting started. Want to weigh in? Keep an eye on community meetings through Ald. Bennett Lawson's (44th) office and make your voice heard.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/03/12/cubs-want-hundreds-of-new-parking-spaces-near-wrigley-field/
2. https://www.wbez.org/wbez-newsletter/2026/03/12/the-rundown-cubs-push-for-more-parking-near-wrigley-field