Normal is home to the newest location of a Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, and it's already seeing congested traffic. The fast-food restaurant, first announced in late 2023, held its grand opening on Tuesday.
Since opening day, traffic has been heavy near the restaurant off Veterans Parkway. The restaurant expected the influx of customers and decided to hire security to mediate traffic.
Denise Higgins was working the drive-thru for a contracted security team and said despite the number of cars, traffic was flowing smoothly.
“It’s been super busy but steady,” Higgins said. “It’s easy to get people in and out and [Raising Cane’s] are working fairly quickly to get people out.”
Higgins said the restaurant was smart to hire security, adding traffic was consistently busy throughout opening day.
“Unfortunately, some of the other businesses are getting a little backed up because our people are trying … to get their business through for them,” she said. “Everybody is being really understanding and working through everything, so that’s a good thing.”
Brandon Stampley also was working for traffic security. He said traffic did not let up throughout the day.
“The busiest time has been from 11 [a.m.] all the way up to about 10 o’clock at night,” he said.
Stampley said there was a reason why traffic was so heavy.
“Because the food is delicious,” he said. “People love this chicken.”
The Normal Police Department addressed the increased business in the area, posting a “Chicken Triangle alert” on Facebook. It advised drivers to remain patient as they visit the new Raising Cane’s and to obey all traffic laws and posted signs.
"We’ve heard reports of cars circling for what feels like days, drivers questioning all their life choices, and passengers contemplating a full-on sprint for a chicken sandwich," the post read.
