NYC Marathon Road Closures 2026: Streets, Bridges and Reopening Updates

NYC Marathon Road Closures 2026: Streets, Bridges and Reopening Updates

Race guide | Verified editorial draft | November 1, 2026

Numerous New York City streets and bridges are affected by the 2026 NYC Marathon on Sunday, November 1. The closures are rolling, and the NYPD determines when a particular street reopens. The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge upper level was scheduled to close at 11:00 p.m. October 31 and the lower level at 7:00 a.m. November 1; approximately 4:00 p.m. is the announced reopening target, not a guarantee. Travelers should check official city alerts before driving.

What closes for the marathon?

The marathon moves from Staten Island through Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan, so restrictions are not confined to Central Park. Roadways used by runners, crossing points, some bridge approaches, and adjacent streets can be controlled for setup, racing, and cleanup. NYC311 lists Manhattan impacts including segments of First Avenue and Fifth Avenue, while additional restrictions affect each borough. A street that is closed in the morning may reopen later, but the city does not guarantee uniform reopening hours along the 26.2-mile route.

Verrazzano bridge changes on October 31 and November 1

Notify NYC's October 29 notice specifies an 11:00 p.m. October 31 shutdown for the upper level and a 7:00 a.m. November 1 shutdown for the lower level. Both levels were expected to reopen around 4:00 p.m. November 1, depending on police operations. Do not plan a timed airport pickup, freight delivery, or medical appointment around that estimate without checking the latest notice. Other crossings may experience significant congestion as drivers reroute.

Manhattan restrictions and spectator crossings

The approach to the finish and sections of First Avenue, Fifth Avenue, and streets around Columbus Circle can experience long disruptions. NYC311 notes that some restrictions may begin as early as 5:00 a.m. and continue into the evening, in some locations as late as 10:30 p.m. Access to a building across the race route can require extra walking and a designated crossing. Spectators should ask event personnel where they may cross; never step onto the race course or bypass barriers.

Can you use the subway?

For many trips, a subway journey combined with a short walk is more predictable than trying to cross the marathon by car. Nevertheless, a subway station near the course is not necessarily the best point of access, and service changes can occur independently of the road closures. Check MTA service notices for your route and allow extra time. Accessibility needs, stroller access, and elevator availability are worth planning before leaving home.

How to confirm a street has reopened

Treat published reopening times as estimates. Police may extend or shorten restrictions to protect runners, spectators, and emergency access. The city's alert service and NYC311 are better suited to last-minute traffic decisions than a static article. When coordinating a delivery or rideshare, identify pickup points away from the course and give the driver a location that can be reached without crossing a closure. This page is a dated planning guide, not a live traffic feed.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Verrazzano Bridge closed for the NYC Marathon?

Both levels have scheduled closures around race day. Reopening around 4 p.m. November 1 was an estimate subject to NYPD decisions.

What time do NYC Marathon roads reopen?

Times vary by location; some closures continue into the evening. Check NYC311 and current city alerts.

Is it easier to use the subway on race day?

Often yes, but verify MTA service and station access before traveling.