TORONTO: Major roads and sections of highways across Toronto will be closed this weekend to accommodate the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Severe traffic disruptions are expected as several key thoroughfares in the downtown core are temporarily shut down for the massive event, which will see over 60,000 runners participate.
The event kicks off with a 5K race on Saturday, followed by the half marathon and full marathon on Sunday. Running along the scenic shores of Lake Ontario and through downtown streets, the course will affect major roads including Bathurst, Bloor, Yonge, and Bay Streets.
Saturday 5K Race Closures
Traffic restrictions will go into effect early Saturday morning along key routes:
- Bay Street: Fully closed from Queen Street West to Front Street, and from Front Street to Lake Shore Boulevard West, between 4:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
- Lake Shore Boulevard West: Closed to all traffic between Yonge Street and Bathurst Street from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
Sunday Half and Full Marathon Closures
Sunday will see the most extensive road closures across the city:
- Lake Shore Boulevard East: Fully closed from Carlaw Street to Woodbine Avenue between 8:00 AM and 3:30 PM.
- Lake Shore Boulevard West: Closed from Windermere Avenue to Bathurst Street between 5:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Westbound lanes from Bathurst Street to Yonge Street will also face restrictions.
- Yonge Street: Closed from Carlton Street to Gerrard Street starting Saturday at 7:00 PM. The section from Gerrard Street to Richmond Street will shut down on Sunday at 3:00 AM, followed by the stretch from Bloor Street to Carlton Street closing at 7:00 AM on Sunday. These closures are expected to reopen by 11:00 AM.
- Bathurst Street: Fully closed from Bloor Street West to Lake Shore Boulevard West between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
- Bloor Street: Closed from Bathurst Street to Yonge Street between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
- Bay Street: Closed from Queen Street West to Lake Shore Boulevard West between 5:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Travel & Transit Advisory
City officials state that the road closures are necessary to guarantee participant safety and manage traffic flow. Commuters travelling through downtown Toronto this weekend are strongly advised to check closure schedules and plan their routes in advance.
Due to anticipated delays, drivers are encouraged to allow extra travel time and opt for public transit wherever possible. Opening times may vary based on race progress, so travelers should stay updated via local transit announcements.
