If you frequently drive through Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood, be prepared for changes in your daily commute. The one-way stretch between Lawrence and Leland Avenues will be closed to vehicle traffic for a whole week starting April 21.
The road closure is due to ongoing construction to upgrade the Western Avenue Brown Line station and a nearby plaza and parking lot, according to Block Club Chicago.
Traffic will be prohibited from entering the no-car zone for at least a week. However, the commercial corridor will remain open to pedestrians, providing access to the area without the need for a vehicle.
What to know about car-free Lincoln Square
As car traffic in the area is expected to decrease in the coming weeks due to planned closures, the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce is actively working to increase foot traffic and encourage pedestrians to support the neighborhood’s small businesses.
While the street is temporarily closed to vehicles, the 4700 block of North Lincoln Avenue will transform into an open-air shopping experience until Sunday, April 27.
There will be over 20 different restaurants and local vendors participating, including Raw Edge, Gearhead Outfitters, Genevieve, and The Chopping Block, among others, offering a variety of items with special discounts for this week. Although this is only a temporary measure, this week could serve as an opportunity to assess interest in a pedestrian-only area.
Lincoln Square’s open-air shopping experience
Artango Bar & Steakhouse
Artango is open for outdoor seating and is offering a 20% discount on food and drinks on the patio.
Augusta Food and Wine
Open for wine tastings every day!
Chicago Waffles
Enjoy free coffee at the coffee station outside the restaurant, along with Belgian waffles for only $10!
Gearhead Outfitters
Receive an additional 20% off sale items and complimentary Gearhead perks.
Savory Spice Shop
Buy three Spice N Easy packets and get the fourth one free, plus enjoy special discounts every day.
Geraldine’s Café
Get a 10% discount on your total check when you mention the secret word “sidewalk.”
Hello Jasmine
Receive a 10% discount on your total check when you mention the secret word “sidewalk.”
Jerry’s Sandwiches
Enjoy a 10% discount on your total check by mentioning the secret word “sidewalk.”
Kanlaya
Get one free drink with the purchase of two main course orders, or receive a free appetizer for orders over $69.
Learn more here.