The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is asking residents and commuters to prepare for extensive travel disruptions on Sunday, Nov. 1, as the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon rolls through the five boroughs. The agency has outlined a series of road closures, bridge restrictions, and transit adjustments designed to keep the race safe while maintaining essential service for New Yorkers.
Key road closures
The most significant impact will be the closure of the Verrazzano‑Narrows Bridge to all non‑emergency traffic from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on marathon day. In addition, the bridge’s upper level will be shut in both directions beginning at 11 p.m. Saturday to allow race crews to set up equipment. Drivers traveling between Brooklyn and Staten Island will need to use alternate routes, as the Bay Street and Lily Pond Avenue exits on Staten Island will close at 3 a.m. Sunday and are expected to reopen by 4 p.m.
Street and bus changes throughout the city
Marathon‑related street closures will affect several major thoroughfares. The Central Park transverse roads at 65th, 79th, and 96th streets will be closed for most of the day, and buses will be prohibited from crossing Fifth Avenue during the race. Riders should anticipate diversions and plan for longer travel times on affected routes.
Transit service adjustments for runners and spectators
To accommodate participants and spectators, the MTA will provide special subway connections to the Staten Island Ferry, where shuttle buses will transport runners to the starting area on Staten Island. Additional Metro‑North trains will run on the Hudson, Harlem, and New Haven lines, offering extra capacity for marathon‑related travel.
On‑site crowd management
The agency will deploy extra personnel near the finish line and other popular viewing locations to help manage crowds and keep passengers moving smoothly. Some station stairways may be designated as entrance‑only or exit‑only to prevent overcrowding.
How to stay informed
Commuters are encouraged to check the MTA’s website (mta.info), the official MTA app, TrainTime, email and text alerts, or call 511 for the latest travel updates throughout marathon weekend. By staying informed and using alternate routes, New Yorkers can minimize inconvenience while supporting a world‑class sporting event that showcases the city’s spirit and resilience.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
