“Expecting 10,000-20,000 people:” IKEA grand opening traffic plan released

OAK CREEK, Wis. (CBS 58) – Swedish home retailer IKEA is holding the grand opening for the new Oak Creek location on May 16.

According to Oak Creek police, 10,000-20,000 people are expected to make their way to the store. IKEA and city leaders expect around 9,000 cars throughout the day. Most traffic is expected to come from Interstate 94 southbound at Drexel Ave.

Ahead of the grand opening, the department has come up with a traffic plan to help control the crowds.

Police say there will be several signs and officers helping direct traffic but ask anyone not attending the grand opening to avoid the area.

“I would probably avoid Drexel Avenue probably from May 10-June 1,” Capt. Mike Bolender said. “The following weekends will be bust as well. So if you don’t need to go to IKEA… try to use a different route.”

The following is what you need to know before making your way to the new store:

• I-94 at W. Drexel Ave. will be free-flowing to prevent backups on the highway
• No left turn will be allowed from Drexel Ave. onto IKEA Way
• No street parking will be allowed near IKEA
• Park and Ride available to IKEA from College Ave.

More information on the grand opening can be found on IKEA's website.