Quebec’s largest marathon is set to take place in Montreal this weekend, attracting 35,000 participants from 57 countries for the 34th annual Beneva Montreal Marathon. The event is expected to cause traffic disruptions in the city.
The marathon festivities will commence on Friday at 6 p.m. in Maisonneuve Park with the Mile race, which is not anticipated to impact traffic flow. However, on Saturday and Sunday, the City of Montreal advises the public to plan travel routes carefully, recommending the use of public transportation or active commuting wherever possible. Drivers should be aware of road closures and avoid parking along the race routes.
On Saturday, street closures around Maisonneuve Park will be in effect from 6:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for the one-kilometer, five-kilometer, and 10-kilometer races. On Sunday, street closures will be in place from 6:30 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. for the half-marathon and marathon.
The marathon route will start at Espace 67 and pass through several key points, including the Concorde Bridge, Notre-Dame Street, La Fontaine Park, St-Joseph Boulevard, and St-Laurent Boulevard. There will be designated crossing points for cars at various locations, such as Route 136, Sherbrooke Street, Des Carrières Street, Van Horne Viaduct, Highway 40, and Viau Bridge.
To accommodate the increased ridership during the marathon weekend, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) will enhance the number of trains on the Yellow line. Regular operating hours and service frequencies will be maintained, and transit users are advised to purchase tickets in advance.
Spectators are encouraged to support the runners at over 20 designated “cheer zones” along the marathon route throughout the weekend. For more details about the event, visit the Montreal marathon website.
[WATCH] How to navigate around during Montreal marathon weekend:
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The 34th annual Beneva Montreal Marathon will run from October 9 to 11, impacting traffic in the city.
