Pregame gridlock tonight: Beware!

Let this be a warning: Three games at the sports complex tonight could cause pregame gridlock.

At 7 p.m., the Sixers take on the Indiana Pacers at the Wachovia Center.

Five minutes later, the Phillies meet the Chicago Cubs at Citizens Bank Park, while the Phantoms host the Hershey Bears at the Wachovia Spectrum.

Basically, not only nearby streets but major routes like I-95, I-76, Columbus Boulevard/Delaware Avenue and the Walt Whitman Bridge might be clogged from rush hour through game time.

The best advice for fans: Leave early or take SEPTA.

In addition to its regular Broad Steet Line locals and expresses, SEPTA will run three Sports Express trains, which will leave the Fern Rock center at 6:18 p.m., 6:28 p.m. and 6:38 p.m.

Riders can catch them only at the Fern Rock, Erie, Girard, Spring Garden, Race-Vine, City Hall and Walnut-Locust stations.

Regular local and express trains will also be in service throughout the day.

After the games, fans will find local and express trains, SEPTA says.

To check local traffic conditions, go to: http://go.philly.com/traffic.