Surprise! Half-Marathon in our neighborhoods this weekend

I have just been notified that the DreamBank Her Half Marathon will be held this Sunday morning June 28 from 7am until noon. The route includes Lake Mendota Drive, Baker Avenue, Old Middleton Road and University Avenue in District 19.

Though I'm very frustrated by the short notice, I want to get as much information as possible out quickly so that hopefully the event can still be successful for affected residents and for the event participants. While this is a new event, the organizers are experienced and qualified.

If you live along the route, the event organizers will be hand-delivering a notification letter to you today.

Here's what I know about how the event may affect you:

• Old Middleton Road will be closed to motor vehicles eastbound from Whitney Way to University from 6am until noon. Acceess to the bike path will remain open. Police will be directing traffic to the detour along University Avenue.
• Other streets along the route will not be closed, however a portion of the eastbound (south side) of Lake Mendota Drive and the southbound (west) side of Baker Avenue will be coned off for runners. Parking will not be prohibited in the coned areas, but event organizers ask that you park elsewhere if possible for the safety of runners and passing motorists.
• Police will also be directing traffic at the following University Avenue intersections:
  Hickory Dr.
  Laurel Crest Dr.
  Capital Ave.
  Camus La.
  Fritz Ave.
  Norman Way
  Spring Harbor Dr.
  Flambeau Rd.
• The University Avenue bike path will not be closed, but please use caution if you are walking/biking/running on Sunday morning.
• About 800 participants are expected.

If you have questions or comments about this event (before, during or after), please contact me. I will be compiling feedback for the event organizers and for city event staff.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation with this event.

Ald. Mark Clear
district19@cityofmadison.com (preferred)
608-695-5709