Chicago – Alderman Bennett Lawson (44th Ward) announced that the Cubs’ proposal to expand the Camry Lot north of Wrigley Field beyond the 800 spaces already permitted will not move forward. Lawson cited an “overwhelming” response from local residents who worry about increased traffic, safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and the loss of valuable neighborhood land.
Neighborhood Survey Shows Near‑Universal Opposition
Lawson’s office conducted a survey of 44th Ward residents. Of the 490 respondents who identified as ward residents, 438 (89.5%) opposed the expansion. Only 29 respondents (6%) supported it, with the remainder neutral or unsure. When the survey focused on the 233 respondents living within four blocks of the lot in the 44th and 46th wards, opposition rose to 84.1% and support fell to just 5%.
The broader survey collected 862 responses overall, according to a FOIA request. More than 91% of 44th Ward respondents said the expansion would negatively affect traffic, and 90.4% said it would harm pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Lawson’s Decision Reflects Community Priorities
“At this time, I have made the decision to prevent the Cubs from expanding beyond their already permitted 800 parking spaces,” Lawson said in a statement. “This decision reflects the strong and consistent input from residents, and my commitment to ensuring that any future changes prioritize community safety, traffic management, and overall quality of life in the neighborhood.”
Cubs Remain Committed to Parking Needs
Michael Lufrano, the Cubs’ executive vice president of community, government and legal affairs, said the team remains dedicated to addressing parking demand while being a good neighbor. “For years, we’ve heard from local officials, fans and neighbors that additional parking would improve access to Wrigley Field and free up street parking on gamedays,” Lufrano said. “We continue to believe there is an opportunity to address that need while respecting the surrounding community.”
The Cubs are awaiting a city‑approved traffic study before proceeding with any further plans. Lawson noted that the team has completed a traffic study and is working with the Chicago Police Department, the Department of Transportation, and the Office of Emergency Management and Communications to overhaul the Wrigley Traffic Management Plan, which has not been updated in over a decade.
Planning Development Amendment Still in Process
Under the existing Planned Development (PD) agreement, the Cubs may add up to 112 spaces—bringing the total to 800—without further aldermanic approval. Lawson’s rejection blocks the request for a full 947‑space expansion but does not prevent the team from reaching the 800‑space limit.
The Cubs must still submit a new site plan for the former House of the Good Shepherd property they purchased from Catholic Charities. The amendment will also address outstanding compliance issues involving the alley on Clifton Avenue, the Blue/Highlander lot, and security upgrades tied to the 2027 MLB All‑Star Game.
Community Voices Call for Alternatives
Residents emphasized the availability of public transportation, bike routes, and existing private lots as alternatives to additional parking. One respondent wrote, “There are numerous ways to get to the field without a car. This city has good public transportation; we should be incentivizing people to take public transit or to ride a bike.”
Another neighbor noted, “I’m having a hard time understanding the need, given parking is definitely available within a 10‑minute walk of the lot. Expanding a parking lot is a terrible use of land, especially during the housing shortage we’re in.”
Next Steps
The Cubs can still proceed with the 800‑space plan, which includes additional landscaping and trees along the lot’s eastern edge. Lawson said any future traffic plan must prioritize pedestrians, public transportation, and other non‑driving options before he would consider supporting further expansion.
The story underscores the power of neighborhood engagement in shaping development decisions in Wrigleyville and reflects a broader city‑wide emphasis on preserving walkable, transit‑rich communities.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
