MADISON, Wis. – The Madison Marathon is set to take place this weekend, prompting city officials to remind motorists of impending road closures associated with the event. All races will kick off at 7 a.m. on Sunday, with runners beginning their journey on Capitol Square. Participants in the full marathon will traverse scenic locations including the UW Arboretum, Vilas Park, and around Lake Monona before returning to Capitol Square. In addition to the full marathon, a 10k and a half marathon will also be held.
Officials anticipate that streets will gradually reopen as the last runner passes each closure point, with the final participant expected to finish the marathon around 1:30 p.m. Local law enforcement will be positioned throughout the course to facilitate traffic management, encouraging drivers to opt for alternate routes or to allow for extra travel time. Access for vehicles will be granted only during significant breaks in the flow of runners.
As part of the closures, specific roadways in Capitol Square will be shut down, with full access expected to resume by Sunday evening. Notable closures began Saturday morning, including Wisconsin Avenue between Mifflin Street and Dayton Street, and sections of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
Additionally, closures will follow the Farmers’ Market schedule, affecting various streets including Pinckney Street, Main Street, and others.
Partial lane closures will be in effect along several streets during the marathon, including North Shore Drive and W. Washington Avenue. Key intersections and streets will also see temporary closures during the race.
Motorists are advised to familiarize themselves with the road closures in advance to mitigate delays. Thankfully, many downtown roads, including inbound John Nolen Drive and E. Washington Avenue, will remain unaffected.
The Madison Marathon not only represents a significant sporting event for the community but also showcases the beautiful city landscape, as thousands of runners and supporters come together to participate in this annual tradition.