More than 20,000 runners are hitting the streets today for the annual Toronto marathon adding to a weekend of road closures that include construction and parades.
Several closures began earlier this weekend with few expected to stretch the entirety of the month.
Today’s marathon will affect major routes such as Yonge Street, Lake Shore Boulevard and connecting downtown roads.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know before heading out the door.
Toronto Marathon Sunday
The marathon is taking place today, with closures in effect from Yonge Street near Mel Lastman Square to Strachan Avenue at Lake Shore Boulevard West between 5 a.m. and 3 p.m.
The city says 22,000 participants from more than 70 countries are expected to take part in the event, with dozens of law enforcement stationed throughout major intersections.
Drivers are advised to expect delays in those areas.
City officials add that Highway 401 southbound ramps at Yonge Street are expected to reopen by 10 a.m.
Meanwhile, it should be noted that Bloor Street will remain open for drivers, while Spadina Avenue will remain open to maintain access to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and the Queens Quay area.
A full list of all marathon-related closures can be found here.
Lake Shore construction
Until May 29, one westbound lane on Lake Shore Boulevard will close weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and overnight between Yonge Street and Raptors Way.
Officials say that additional closures will continue overnight on the westbound lane between Parliament Street and Cherry Street, adding that those measure will remain in place until May 8.
Construction for “bridge rehabilitation” will also close Eastern Avenue from Sumach Street to Broadview Avenue and Adelaide Street East from Parliament Street to Eastern Avenue during overnight periods from May 4 to May 7. Closures include:
- Eastern Avenue will be closed from Sumach Street to Broadview Avenue
- Adelaide Street East will be closed from Parliament Street to Eastern Avenue
- Southbound Don Valley Parkway (DVP) drivers will be able to exit at the Richmond Street off‑ramp and travel westbound on Richmond Street or Eastern Avenue
Then, from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. on May 4 and May 5, officials say they’ll close the southbound DVP off-ramp to Richmond Street.
Other Sunday closures
The Khalsa Day Etobicoke Parade is also set to close stretches of Finch Avenue West, Woodbine Downs Boulevard, Carrier Drive and Westmore Drive today.
Meanwhile, St. Albans Road in Etobicoke remains closed until late Sunday for crane dismantling.
