Transportation Officials Announce Ban on Unsancationed Cyclists on NYC Marathon Course
City transportation officials have announced a ban on unsanctioned cyclists during the NYC Marathon to ensure safety and accessibility.
The New York City Department of Transportation announced that it is prohibiting unsanctioned cyclists from entering the New York City Marathon course on November 2.
- Street closures in the hours before the race are meant for emergency vehicles, crews setting up for the event, and medical tents.
For decades, cyclists have used the 26.2-mile course to organize early morning rides before sunrise, taking advantage of empty streets without cars and trucks.
Cyclists have used large stretches of the course since at least the early 1990s.
Rare opportunities for street takeovers in the city include the Five Boro Bike Tour in May and Summer Streets in August, both of which are sanctioned.
Author's note: NYC Marathon course now closed to unsanctioned cyclists.