IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga Traffic Impact Announced
The Chattanooga Division of Transportation has issued a reminder about the anticipated traffic impact due to the upcoming IRONMAN 70.3 event. This highly anticipated event will take place on Sunday, May 19, bringing with it a series of road closures and transportation adjustments designed to ensure the safety of both participants and spectators.
Officials encourage spectators and visitors to make use of parking available in lots and garages around downtown. For convenience, the Free Electric Shuttle will start operations at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, and the Bike Chattanooga bike share system will be available 24/7.
Public festivities kick off on Friday afternoon, with the IRONMAN Village and the Official IRONMAN Store opening at 2 p.m. on Riverfront Parkway. These locations will be accessible throughout the weekend, offering participants and fans alike a central hub for all things IRONMAN.
The Tennessee River will witness restrictions as well. It will be closed to pleasure crafts between Ross’ Landing and the Hubert Fry Center from 5-10:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 19, impacting access to Rivermont Park and Tennessee Riverpark boat ramps.
The IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga will commence with shuttle buses transporting athletes from Ross’ Landing to the swim starting point early Sunday morning. The swim portion is set to begin at 6:50 a.m., followed by a transition to the bike race between approximately 7:15-9 a.m. Traffic will be restricted from crossing the cyclists’ path on key streets including Riverfront Parkway, West 20th Street, Broad Street, Market Street, and Alton Park Boulevard during these times.
Runners will take to the Riverwalk, Amnicola Highway, the Veterans Bridge, Frazier Avenue, Barton Avenue, and Riverfront Parkway between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Spectators are encouraged to engage with this unique event, witnessing the athletic prowess on display throughout Chattanooga.
Closure Details:
Significant road closures will be in place to accommodate event setup and ensure the safety of athletes and spectators:
- Riverside Drive/Riverfront Parkway between Aquarium Way and Molly Lane, Chestnut Street between Aquarium Way and Riverfront Parkway, Power Alley from the parking lot to Riverfront Parkway, and the southbound Veterans Bridge ramp to Riverside Drive will be closed from Wednesday, May 15 at 9 a.m. until Monday, May 20 at 5 a.m.
- Various closures and access limitations will be enforced for the bike portion of the event, including partial closures on Riverfront Parkway, Market Street, West 40th Street, and specific interstate ramps. Control measures will be managed by local officers, with certain intersections operating as 4-way Stops.
- For the run portion, expect closures or limited access on the right eastbound lane of Frazier Avenue, the right northbound lane of Barton Avenue, a segment of the Veterans Bridge, and other key areas. These adjustments are necessary to secure right-of-way for runners from 5 a.m. until 5 p.m. on race day.
Temporary parking restrictions will also be in force in various locations, including Riverfront Parkway and multiple areas within St. Elmo. “Special Event No Parking” signs will be posted to guide visitors and residents.
With these adjustments, Chattanooga eagerly anticipates hosting an unforgettable installment of the IRONMAN 70.3, inviting both locals and visitors to participate in the excitement while navigating the city with ease and safety.
