LIVE UPDATES: Thousands March In The Loop For Chicago Teachers Union Rally

CHICAGO (CBS)– The Chicago Teachers Union rally was underway as thousands of protesters march through The Loop Thursday.

4:05 p.m. 

All traffic in the downtown area has been opened to vehicular traffic as the CTU Rally/March has concluded. pic.twitter.com/7cVamC8cus

— Chicago Police (@Chicago_Police) October 17, 2019

2:40 p.m.

Thousands march on Dearborn supporting the @ctulocal1 Chicago Teachers’ strike pic.twitter.com/YZdTCU4NzM

— CBS Chicago (@cbschicago) October 17, 2019

1:30 p.m.

Large crowds are gathered outside of Chicago Public Schools Headquarters on Dearborn Street.

CTU RALLY: Officially starts now. Crowd is building. Madison is closed between State and Dearborn. Traffic will continue to be an issue if a march (no route shared) follows rally. @cbschicago has crews here to bring you all details. pic.twitter.com/10HlmKtqf8

— Tara Molina (@TaraMolinaTV) October 17, 2019

Due to the crowds, Madison Street is closed between State and Dearborn Streets. Officials say traffic delays should be expected and demonstration activity may go through rush hour.

Additional street closures may occur throughout the rally/march to ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists. Please heed the direction of public safety officials as the closures are implemented. https://t.co/EqXaaD6MTN

— Chicago OEMC (@ChicagoOEMC) October 17, 2019

Chicago police said traffic has been rerouted.

Westbound vehicular traffic on Madison from State St. has been re-routed due to the CTU Rally pic.twitter.com/xgkyQUuFmY

— Chicago Police (@Chicago_Police) October 17, 2019

Marchers moved to the street as the rally continues.

Teachers strike moves from sidewalk to street. Thousands here. @cbschicago #CTUstrike #CPSStrike pic.twitter.com/LOU2djbXgf

— Chris Tye (@TVTye) October 17, 2019