With the Cubs home opener upon us, residents of Wrigleyville and beyond brace ourselves for the annual uptick of automobile traffic. While I enjoy an unobstructed view of the ballpark from my Lakeview high-rise, I’m astounded and yes, disconcerted each year, as I witness the never-ending queue of cars along Addison Street in the hours surrounding a home game.

This is also the time of year that real estate agents are sure to feature, as appropriate, ”Walk to Wrigley!” in their listing remarks. Of course, one person’s walk is another person’s cab ride…

When I list a property, I insist on accurate representation of amenities, including proximity to parks, lakefront paths, etc. Prime example: I’m presently listing a gorgeous 2 bed/2 bath condo in North Center. While my sellers tell me they enjoy their walk to the ballpark and I can totally relate, I cannot assume that their healthy two-mile hike would necessarily translate to all prospective buyers. Therefore I do not include Wrigley in my written listing remarks but am certain to mention it at showings.

Other car-free options to the Friendly Confines include riding a bike. Or taking the CTA. Hey, the Addison stop of the Red Line couldn’t be more convenient @Sheffield. For night and weekend games there’s even a special 154 Wrigley Field Express bus from the DeVry University parking lot on Rockwell just south of Addison where baseball fans can leave their car for a nominal fee that includes a round-trip fare.

Go Cubbies!