Boise families and fitness enthusiasts have a busy Saturday ahead as the St. Luke’s FitOne 5K, 10K and Half Marathon rolls into downtown on September 26. The event draws thousands of participants, volunteers and spectators, and it also brings a series of temporary road closures and traffic changes that affect drivers throughout the city.
Pick Up Your Race Packet Early
If you are signed up to run, do not wait until race day to collect your packet. The FitOne organizers will distribute packets from Wednesday, September 23 through Friday, September 25, between noon and 7 p.m. at the Ann Morrison Park Fountain, 1000 S. Americana Blvd. This is also the final window to register for the 5K or 10K; the half marathon is sold out, though a waitlist remains open.
Start Times and Shuttle Service
All three races start on Capitol Boulevard at Bannock Street. The half marathon begins at 7:15 a.m., the 10K follows at 7:30 a.m., and the 5K kicks off at 9:30 a.m. with staggered waves through about 9:50 a.m. FitOne recommends arriving 45 to 60 minutes early to allow time for parking, bathroom stops and finding your starting area.
Participants can take advantage of a free shuttle that runs between Boise Towne Square Mall, the start line and the Finish Festival at Ann Morrison Park, easing the parking crunch in the downtown core.
Road Closures and Detours
Drivers should expect downtown closures generally between 5 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Saturday. Key streets affected include the block between Front and State from roughly 6th to 9th streets, which will be closed from 5 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Portions of Capitol Boulevard and 9th Street will close later in the morning. Warm Springs, Parkcenter, Americana and several other streets will see lane restrictions or full closures. No parking is permitted on Warm Springs Avenue from Avenue B to the Idaho Botanical Garden between 3 a.m. and 10 a.m.
The 10K and half‑marathon routes also travel along the Boise River Greenbelt. While the Greenbelt itself stays open, runners will be on the path from about 7:45 a.m. to 11 a.m., and FitOne advises other users to follow alternate routes during that window.
Spectator Areas and Finish Festival
Even if you’re not running, the event offers plenty of family‑friendly activities. Spectators are encouraged to gather at Ann Morrison Park and Kristen Armstrong Municipal Park for prime viewing of the 10K and half marathon. After the races, the Finish Festival at Ann Morrison Park will feature live music, food trucks, yard games, photo opportunities and other community‑focused entertainment.
Supporting Idaho Children and Families
FitOne is more than a race; it is a fundraiser for projects that promote healthier lives for Idaho children and families. Past proceeds have funded school track installations, a fitness court in Marsing and a safe walking path in McCall. By participating or volunteering, residents help sustain these valuable community resources.
Plan Ahead
Whether you are racing, cheering or simply navigating downtown, give yourself extra time, check the latest map and follow posted signage. The event showcases Boise’s commitment to active, family‑centered living while supporting charitable projects that benefit our youth.
Original reporting: 580 KIDO Talk Radio (Boise) — read the source article.
