
NYC Marathon This Sunday to Bring Major Traffic Disruptions and Road Closures Across Area
Nearly 60,000 runners are expected to take to the streets of New York City on Sunday, November 1, for the annual TCS New York City Marathon, bringing major road closures, traffic disruptions, and travel restrictions throughout Brooklyn and the rest of the city.
The 26.2-mile race will begin on Staten Island, with runners crossing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge into Brooklyn before continuing through all five boroughs and finishing in Manhattan's Central Park.
Although the marathon route does not pass directly through Boro Park, residents traveling through nearby neighborhoods should prepare for significant traffic disruptions, particularly along Fourth Avenue and major routes connecting Brooklyn to Staten Island.
In Williamsburg, the marathon will pass directly through the neighborhood, with Bedford Avenue and surrounding streets along the race route closed to regular traffic. The closures are expected to affect local drivers, businesses, and residents throughout much of Sunday.
The route continues through Greenpoint before crossing the Pulaski Bridge into Queens, with additional restrictions expected along connecting streets.
Among the major closures will be the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, Fourth Avenue in Brooklyn, Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg, and the Pulaski Bridge. Additional closures will affect portions of Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx.
The first race division is scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m., with professional runners and additional waves starting throughout the morning. The final wave of runners is scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m.
City officials say numerous street and bridge closures will be in effect from approximately 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., although some restrictions may begin earlier or remain in place longer depending on the location and race operations.
For Williamsburg residents, a designated pedestrian crossing zone will be available at Bedford Avenue and Broadway, allowing pedestrians to cross the marathon route under controlled conditions.
The NYPD will be stationed along the course to manage traffic, maintain security, and assist with pedestrian crossings. Drivers should expect detours and additional congestion on surrounding streets as traffic is redirected away from the marathon route.
The annual event is one of the largest marathons in the world, drawing runners and spectators from across the globe. This year's race marks the 50th anniversary of the marathon's five-borough course.
Residents planning to travel on Sunday, particularly between Brooklyn and Staten Island or through Williamsburg, are advised to allow additional travel time, consider alternate routes, and check updated traffic advisories before heading out.
photo: Shutterstock