The 16th annual Racks by the Tracks Festival is rolling into town along with its accompanying races, promising a weekend of spirited revelry and a bit of inconvenience on the roads. This year, the festivities are set to commence on Saturday, but before the fun can start, some street closures are necessary for event setup and ensuring the safety of all attendees and participants.
According to a recent announcement on the City of Kingsport's website, Clinchfield Street from West Center Street to Press Street will be off-limits as of Friday, starting at 3:00 p.m. All lanes will be closed, and the blockage will stay in effect through the duration of Saturday's event. The area will be a no-go zone for vehicles, but a yes-go zone for fun and celebration.
In addition to the initial road closures, several more streets will be blocked off come Saturday to accommodate the Racks by the Tracks 10K and 5K road races, which kick off at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., respectively. The affected streets named in the city's official release include Clinchfield Street, Arch Street, Press Street, Roller Street, West Sullivan Street, Sequoya Street, Cherokee Village, and Lovedale Drive. Detailed race routes can be examined in the maps attached to the city's notice.
The disruptions also mean that those looking forward to the weekly produce pilgrimage at the Kingsport Farmers Market will have to revise their plans. The market will shut its stalls on Saturday, May 17, and will reopen on Wednesday, May 21. As for those hitting the roads, brace for temporary hold-ups as officers direct traffic through the city's veins, and please, keep an eye out for the runners and festival attendees milling about the streets.
While the closures may try the patience of some drivers, they're a small price to pay for ensuring the safety and success of what's sure to be another memorable Racks by the Tracks experience. Remember, the city implores all who will be driving in the downtown Kingsport area during the festivities to be especially watchful and considerate of pedestrians. For further details or uncertainties, Kristie Leonard is the go-to contact at 423-224-2821.
