Quebec’s biggest marathon is set to take place in Montreal this weekend, attracting 35,000 participants from 57 different countries for the 34th annual Beneva Montreal Marathon. The event is expected to cause significant traffic disruptions in the city.
The marathon festivities will commence at Maisonneuve Park on Friday at 6 p.m. 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 their travel routes accordingly, suggesting the use of public transportation or active modes of transport where feasible. Motorists should be aware of road closures and refrain from parking along the marathon routes.
Saturday’s one-kilometre, five-kilometre, and 10-kilometre races will lead to road closures around Maisonneuve Park from 6:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. On Sunday, street closures will be in effect from 6:30 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. for the half-marathon and marathon events.
The marathon route will start at Espace 67, passing through the Concorde Bridge, Notre-Dame Street, La Fontaine Park, St-Joseph Boulevard, and St-Laurent Boulevard. There will be designated crossing points for vehicles at various locations, including 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 train services on the Yellow line. The regular operating hours and service frequency 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.