The four day music festival getting underway in Grant Park.

Nearly a half a million people are expected to attend the festival through Sunday with transportation and safety being main priorities.

This is its 15th year in Chicago and the lineup includes over 170 performances on 8 stages.

Safety — not just within the festival but getting to and from it. Instead of driving, festival goers are encouraged to take public transportation.

Susan Massel, Director of Marketing and Communications for the RTA tells NBC that both the CTA and Metra are ready for the crowds.

Both Metra and the CTA are providing extra service for the festival weekend.

As for street closures…
-Balbo & Jackson both directions between Michigan and Lake Shore Drive
-Columbus both directions from Roosevelt to Monroe
-Ida B. Wells between Michigan & Columbus

It is important to note that unlike other festivals which close the streets to cars, but not foot traffic, bicycles and pedestrians are NOT allowed to pass through.