New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
On Sunday, March 15, 2015, thousands of runners will participate in the 38th Annual New Bedford Half Marathon. The race is hosted by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, a New Bedford based fraternal organization, and the City of New Bedford. The course is a challenging one that includes two major hills, waterfront views, and will be lined with hundreds of volunteers and cheering fans.
Organizers have taken great care to ensure that the New Bedford Half Marathon continues to maintain its reputation as one of the safest races in New England. More than 100 New Bedford police officers will patrol the course and ambulances staff by New Bedford Emergency Medical Services employees will be stationed throughout the city. The New Bedford Police Department has asked runners and spectators not to bring bags to the course as backpacks, suitcases and rolling bags will not be permitted near the start/finish area. The New Bedford Police Department is also asking spectators and runners alike to report any suspicious activity to one of the many police officers available throughout the course leading up to, during, and after the race.
Parking on the race course will not be permitted and “no parking” signs will be posted along the route to warn motorists. In addition, the race course is closed to vehicular traffic and residents are advised to plan ahead as traffic will be restricted from approximately 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. New Bedford Police encourage residents who live in the south end of the city, especially those who live on the peninsula, to plan to leave before 10:30 a.m. and return after 1:30 p.m. Residents are encouraged to avoid Route 18 southbound from Union Street south while the race is underway.
The New Bedford Police Department has identified two alternative routes for those who wish to gain access inside the course perimeter. Individuals looking to visit a patient at St. Luke’s Hospital or who need access to the inner perimeter for other reasons should consider the following routes:
- Rt. 195 East bound to Penniman Street exit to County to Parker to Cottage St.
- Rt. 195 Westbound to Downtown Exit to Rt. 18 Southbound to Rt. 6 exit (Downtown) to Mill Street to Cottage Street.
Mayor Jon Mitchell has announced that the City of New Bedford will offer complimentary parking at the Elm Street and Zeiterion garages. In addition, parking will also be available on Pope’s Island at the Marina and at Fairhaven Hardware. SRTA will provide shuttle service from Pope’s Island to the YMCA between 8:00AM and 10:30AM and then the loop will be reversed to return runners to their vehicles between 12:45PM and 4:00PM.
The entire New Bedford community is involved in welcoming the runners and their friends and families. Visitors will have plenty to do and see in New Bedford’s downtown business district throughout the day.
For more information on the race and race day activities please visit: www.newbedfordhalfmarathon.com
