PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — The Portland Marathon returns to Portland for its 53rd year, and thousands of runners will take to the streets of the Rose City through the day Sunday.
Initially started in 1972 with dozens of participants on Sauvie Island, the Portland Marathon is the longest-running consecutive marathon in the country. The marathon evolved into a major city event with thousands taking part each year, moving into the city by 1977 and centering on downtown by 1984 to purposely feature city landmarks and bridges.
The marathon will impact traffic downtown and also shut down several bridges. Marathoners will be crossing bridges downtown at various times throughout the morning and early afternoon. Be sure to plan ahead for potential traffic delays and use caution while traveling in the downtown area.
Bridge Impacts
Broadway Bridge
On Sunday, Oct. 5 from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., the Broadway Bridge will be closed to motorized vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Runners will be using the bridge during these times. Use alternative routes.
Burnside Bridge
On Sunday, Oct. 5 from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the westbound lane on the Burnside Bridge will be closed for the race.
Morrison Bridge
On Sunday, Oct. 5 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., the south bike and pedestrian lane on the Morrison Bridge will be closed for the race.
Sellwood Bridge
On Sunday, Oct. 5 from 6:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., the westbound lane on the Sellwood Bridge will be closed for the race. Traffic will be rerouted.
Hawthorne Bridge
On Sunday, Oct. 5 from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. the S.E. Water Avenue ramp will be closed for the event.
All other traffic lanes and sidewalks on these bridges will remain open.
Map of this year’s Portland Marathon Route:
