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Wednesday's Pacers game could snarl traffic in downtown Indianapolis. How to get around it
If you commute regularly through downtown Indianapolis, you might want to plan a different route Wednesday. The Indiana Pacers return to Indy this week to play their first NBA Finals home game in 25 years, which could snarl traffic near Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Here's what you should know about anticipated traffic delays, downtown parking and possible road closures.
The Pacers play in Indianapolis at 8:30 p.m. both Wednesday, June 11, and Friday, June 13. If the NBA Finals go into Game 6, the Pacers will return to Indy on Thursday, June 19.
In a media briefing Tuesday, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Chief Christopher Bailey said people can expect traffic restrictions on South Pennsylvania Street and Delaware Street.
No definitive road closures were announced, but Bailey said lanes will be open and shut as necessary. Live updates will be posted on IMPD's X account, he said.
Beginning at 5 a.m. Saturday, June 14, I-65 southbound will be closed through June 16 as part of the first in a series of weekend closures. Traffic can be detoured using I-465 and I-70.
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Indy residents should expect increased traffic June 11 and June 13 as watch parties will take place outside the soon-to-be-packed stadium.
Somewhere between 1,000 and 1,500 watch party tickets will be available for purchase, likely on June 11, according to CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Mel Raines.
If you're headed to the game, you can use the Northeast Lot at 126 S. Delaware Street, which allows you to book a parking spot online near Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Otherwise, you might want to check the dozen other parking facilities around downtown Indy.
The Downtown Indy website has a Park Whiz map that shows the cost of parking when you enter the date and time. You can see rates for Indianapolis parking at or download the Park Whiz app on your smart phone or mobile device.
More about Pacers vs Thunder: How much are tickets to Game 3 of the NBA Finals?
Worried about getting stuck in downtown Indy traffic? Drivers can stay use a free live traffic map from Waze. The navigation app from Waze provides traffic updates, road condition information and offers directions.
(*-if necessary; all games are ET and on ABC)
IndyStar Pulliam Fellow Matthew Cupelli contributed to this report.
