Some 30,000 runners are expected to hit the streets in the Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon on Sunday. Whether you're a runner, a spectator or just someone who needs to navigate the city this weekend, here's some key things to know:
Ready … Set …: The marathon starts downtown at 7 a.m. and will run through the city, including the North Side, West End, South Side and the East End. The race ends downtown. Here's a map of the route. Family and friends can follow a runner's progress by signing up for updates.
Accessing Downtown: It'll be tough. Expect Liberty Avenue from 7th Street to Commonwealth Place, as well as Stanwix Street from Penn Avenue to Boulevard of the Allies to be closed starting at 11:30 p.m. Saturday, according to marathon organizers. Other major roads, including Liberty Avenue (up to 7th Street) and Smithfield Street, will start closing at 5:30 a.m. Sunday. Additional road closures will occur throughout the city as the race progresses. Here's a map of road closures, and here's a chart. Public transportation will be running.
Where to Park: The Pittsburgh Marathon offers this handy parking map for race weekend.
Weather: Expect a low temperature around 47 on Saturday night. Sunday will likely see partly sunny skies with a high near 72, according to the National Weather Service.
New Security Measures: In the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings, marathon organizers and public safety officials have announced stepped-up security measures. There will be new perimeters around the start and finish lines that will be accessible only to runners. Race participants will be provided (and must use) a clear plastic bag for gear check. Spectators are asked to not bring any large duffel bags or large backpacks. If you do bring a bag, expect that it might get checked. Runners and spectators should expect to see more police officers and medical personnel along the route.
