The Bean still closed; reopen date remains unknown
CHICAGO — The Bean has been closed since Aug. 2023 and all we can think about is… when is Chicago’s treasure reopening?
The city’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events announced Thursday, Aug. 10, that construction in Millennium Park in the plaza that surrounds the “Bean” is in need of repairs, thus limiting access and views of Cloud Gate.
The repairs include new pavers and accessibility upgrades.
According to the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events website, construction on Grainger Plaza surrounding Cloud Gate will continue through Spring 2024. As a result, spectators will have to view the “Bean” from a distance instead of up close and underneath.
WGN reached out to the Department of Cultural Affairs, and they were not able to provide an indication of when it will reopen.
“This necessary maintenance by the City of Chicago will replace pavers and make other repairs and accessibility upgrades to the Plaza—to enhance the nearly 20-year-old Park’s appearance, visitor experience, and position as the #1 attraction in the Midwest,” the department said.
Millennium Park is almost 20 years old, and the “Bean” is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Chicago and the Midwest.
The first day of spring was Tuesday, Mar. 19, which was also the start of the vernal equinox.
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