Expect gridlock, limited parking in Raleigh for Rock-n-Roll marathon
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- The organizers of the 2nd Annual Rock-n-Roll Marathon in Downtown Raleigh are offering avid runners and drivers a word of warning. Participants and spectators should expect lengthy traffic delays and limited parking as they approach the downtown area Saturday evening into Sunday morning.
"One of the big things is parking this year," explained marathon spokesperson Katie Holmes, adding that runners are encouraged to be parked and in place by 5:30 a.m. on Sunday.
While some streets were blocked ahead of the race, a majority of the road closures will start at 6:00 a.m. on Sunday. The roads will reopen around 3:00 p.m. Sunday afternoon.
More than 8200 runners have registered for the big race. First time runners are brimming over with excitement.
"I ran a lot," said Natalie Deitch. "I'm a little nervous about the hills because we're from Charleston and it's really flat at home."
Runners overwhelmed by the Triangle's landscape convinced the marathon's organizers to reduce the number of hills during the 26.2 mile route this year. The route for the half-marathon runners remains the same.
The day before the race, participants packed downtown restaurants and bars. The event has proven to be a big boost to Downtown Raleigh businesses.
"I think it's a great," said Michelle Shoemaker, a Greensboro native visiting Raleigh for the first time. "The people at the hotel are very nice."
The runners and spectators will celebrate at the Red Hat Amphitheater immediately following the race.
For more information about the race, parking, and road closures, click here.
