Traffic Advisory for the Fitger’s 5K Race this Saturday

Before I went for my evening run last night, I read through the latest developments from the FBI and learned of the many heroes that weren't expecting that title on what was to be a day at the Boston Marathon.  As our thoughts continue to be with those that were affected physically and emotionally by the Boston Marathon bombings, many area runners are preparing for the Fitger's 5K, this Saturday.  Every year the Duluth Police Department provides a traffic advisory and I would wanted to share that with you to help plan the best route for your travel that day.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY:

This Saturday, April 20, beginning at 8:30a, traffic will be diverted from portions of Superior Street in Downtown Duluth, Lake Avenue and Railroad Street. Motorists should obey temporary “No Parking” areas on the LOWER side of Superior Street from Lake Avenue to 2nd Avenue East, BOTH sides from 2nd to 8th Avenues East, and the West side of Lake Avenue from Railroad Street down to the Aerial Bridge. Violators will be tagged and towed.

Traffic delays will occur for approximately 2 hours as westbound traffic will be diverted off of Superior Street between 2nd and 8th Avenues East, and eastbound traffic on Superior Street from Lake Avenue to 8th Avenue East. East bound traffic is urged to use 2nd Street. West bound traffic will be allowed on Superior Street from 2nd Avenue East westward.

Motorists should be alert for officers directing traffic Downtown, in the Canal Park area and near the DECC.

SOUTH LAKE AVENUE:

The 2 up bound lanes on the East side of South Lake Avenue over I-35 will be closed to traffic and used for runners. The 2 down bound lanes on the West side of South Lake Avenue will be coned for 2-way vehicle traffic. The North bound I-35 On-Ramp and South bound I-35 Off-Ramp onto Lake Avenue will both be closed during the race. The North bound I-35 Off-Ramp onto Lake Avenue and the South bound I-35 On-Ramp at Lake Avenue will remain open.

RAILROAD STREET:

Railroad Street will be closed for the duration of the race from Garfield Avenue to Lake Avenue South. Local businesses may access Railroad Street from Garfield Avenue only to about 6th Avenue West where Railroad Street will be totally blocked for the duration of the race. An officer will be working at Garfield Avenue and Railroad Street to assist.

SLIP RAMP EXIT:

The Slip Ramp Exit onto Railroad Street from North bound I-35 will be closed.

DECC:

5th Avenue West will be the ONLY access to the DECC.

CANAL PARK/PARK POINT

Motorists driving to Canal Park or Park Point can use South Lake Avenue. Canal Park Drive from Railroad Street to Morse Street will be closed briefly during the event.

FITGER'S RAMP/PICKWICK LOT:

The Fitger's Ramp and Pickwick Lot will be closed just before the race, and will open immediately after. Traffic should return to normal by approximately 10:30 a.m.

If you have any questions contact Officer Bill Stovern at (218) 390-2297