Runners and spectators gearing up for the annual Grandma's Marathon should prepare for an array of road and parking lot closures across Duluth, set to accommodate the flood of participants and the intricate setup required for the event's seamless unfolding. An advisory posted on Facebook warns of the upcoming traffic disruptions, starting with the Northwest Iron Lot closing from June 17 at 6:00 a.m. and the subsequent full closure of the Lake City Lot on June 19 for race preparations.
Major roadways will also suffer temporary shut downs to give way to the marathon runners' path. To efficiently manage the flow of pedestrians, a temporary bridge is to be installed over Canal Park Drive, potentially causing short delays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m on June 18. Parking will also see significant restrictions; bleachers will be installed on Canal Park Drive early on June 19, foreclosing these spots for the duration of the marathon, as mentioned in the traffic advisory.
The William A. Irvin 5K race, scheduled for June 20, will prompt further closures including Harbor Drive and portions of Railroad Street, with adjustments in traffic patterns expected to resume to normal by 2:30 p.m the same day. Additionally, June 21 will see Superior Street blocked off early in the morning for a pedestrian bridge construction over it, necessitating detours and careful navigation for the local traffic.
For residents and visitors looking to navigate the closures, detours will be established—albeit, they should be ready to expect some inconveniences. Eastbound and westbound traffic will have to divert and use alternative routes through 2nd Street and Superior Street, respectively. Drivers will need to function within these modified routes starting at 5:30 a.m. on race day. The myriad road closures are listed with the intent to secure both participants and spectators, ensuring a safe event for all involved, as stated in the traffic advisory.
As for parking, official advisories recommend that those attending or volunteering for the marathon park in designated areas away from the racecourse, such as downtown Duluth ramps, which will likely provide easier access amidst the day's congested conditions. The DECC and Bayfront Festival Park area will be accessible only via specified detours on 5th Avenue West and Garfield Avenue. Spectators are also encouraged to utilize open avenues for parking and to heed all "No Parking" signs to avoid towing or fines.
