Oak Forest Police Department announces traffic plan for local gas giveaway

The Oak Forest Police Department is warning residents and commuters of anticipated traffic congestion on Thursday, March 24 from 7 to 10 a.m. near the BP gas station at the corner of 159^th Street and Central Avenue due to the gas giveaway event sponsored by Chicago businessman Willie Wilson.  The first 400 vehicles at the gas station will receive $50 in gas.

“Our personnel will make every effort to keep traffic flowing,” said Police Chief Jason Reid. “In light of previous giveaways in other towns, we are asking those who are not participating in the event to find alternate routes of travel so as to avoid the area.”

Per the police department, participants in the gas giveaway cannot line up before 7 a.m.  There will be one point of entry/exit to the gas station on 159^th Street just east of Central Avenue (see image below).  The entrance/exit is only accessible to westbound traffic. Once drivers fill up, vehicles must head west out of the gas station.  The curb lane of 159^th Street (westbound) will be used to accommodate those waiting to receive their fuel.

Volunteers from Wilson’s organization will be pumping gas so drivers will not be allowed to exit their vehicles.  Also, the BP gas station’s convenience store will be closed to customers during the giveaway.  Participants are asked to respect the surrounding businesses and their parking lots.