This weekend, Wilmington, North Carolina, is set to host the exhilarating IRONMAN 70.3 North Carolina Triathlon, drawing approximately 3,500 athletes from across the nation. The event promises a spectacle of endurance and skill, beginning with a 1.2-mile swim in the serene Banks Channel at Wrightsville Beach. This is followed by a challenging 56-mile bike ride that will weave through the picturesque landscapes of Wrightsville Beach, along MLK Parkway, and into the heart of Pender County via US 421, before circling back to Wilmington. The triathlon will culminate in a 13.1-mile run that starts in the northern part of downtown, loops around the scenic Greenfield Lake, and finishes triumphantly at Riverfront Park in front of the federal courthouse on Water Street.
However, with great events come significant logistical undertakings, particularly concerning traffic flow and road accessibility. Residents and visitors to Wilmington should anticipate several road closures and traffic modifications throughout the weekend, with downtown Wilmington facing the most substantial disruptions. Key closures include Water Street between Market and Princess streets, parts of Princess Street, Hanover Street between North Front and North Second streets, and North Second Street between Brunswick and Hanover streets.
For those navigating around the bike course, expect lane closures starting at 3 a.m. on Saturday. Cyclists will traverse Eastwood Road, Market Street, North College Road, and MLK Parkway, crossing the Isabel Holmes Bridge into Pender County. They will then loop back via Union Chapel Road and secondary roads to Blueberry Rd., re-crossing the bridge into downtown Wilmington.
The run course will also see significant impacts, particularly along North Front Street and around Greenfield Lake. The inner lane of Lake Shore Drive will be closed from 5th Avenue to Carolina Beach Road, with mandatory right turns at intersecting roads.
For everyone planning to travel in or around Wilmington this weekend, it's advisable to plan routes in advance and allow extra travel time. These temporary inconveniences are a small price to pay for hosting such a prestigious event that not only challenges athletes but also brings together the community in a celebration of fitness, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Whether you're a participant or a spectator, this weekend in Wilmington is set to be a memorable one. Let's cheer on these incredible athletes as they push their limits and inspire us all!
What is the Ironman 70.3 North Carolina Triathlon?
The Ironman 70.3 North Carolina Triathlon is an athletic event that features a 1.2-mile swim starting at Wrightsville Beach, a 56-mile bike ride through various locations including Pender County, and a 13.1-mile run concluding in downtown Wilmington.
When will the Ironman 70.3 event take place?
The Ironman 70.3 North Carolina Triathlon is scheduled for Saturday, with various road closures and traffic impacts occurring throughout the weekend.
What road closures will occur due to the Ironman 70.3 event?
Several roads in downtown Wilmington will be closed including Water Street between Market and Princess streets, Princess Street from Water to Front Street, Hanover Street between North Front and North Second streets, and North Second Street between Brunswick and Hanover streets from October 17 at 8 a.m. to October 19 at 8 p.m.
How will the bike route affect traffic?
Lane closures and traffic pattern changes will be in place for the bike route starting at 3 a.m. on Saturday. Drivers are advised to use alternate routes as cyclists will be traveling on roads including Eastwood Road, Market Street, North College Road, and MLK Parkway.
What impact will the run portion have on local traffic?
The run portion will close the inner lane of Lake Shore Drive from 5th Avenue to Carolina Beach Road. Vehicles accessing Lake Shore Drive from intersecting roads must turn right, with no left turns allowed.
#Ironman #WilmingtonTraffic
Source: https://www.wwaytv3.com/ironman-70-3-triathlon-to-impact-wilmington-traffic-on-saturday/
