New Bedford Half Marathon Set for Sunday, March 19

NEW BEDFORD –– New Bedford officials have announced the plans for this year's half marathon, which kicks off at 11 a.m. on Sunday, March 19.

Hosted by the city and local organization the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, the annual race returned in 2022 after a two-year hiatus due to COVID.

Thousands of runners participate in the New Bedford Half Marathon each year.

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The race starts and ends on Pleasant Street downtown, with a looping course that leads runners up two big hills and down the South End.

Parking is not allowed along the route, which will also be closed to vehicle traffic from around 11 a.m. until around 2 p.m. on the day of the race.

Free parking will instead be available at the Elm Street and Zeiterion garages.

Residents in the half marathon area –– especially those in the South End and on Clark's Point –– are urged to plan ahead and leave for any necessary travel before 10:30 a.m.

Drivers should also avoid Route 18 south of Union Street during the race.

New Bedford police are asking runners and spectators not to bring bags to the course, and to report any suspicious activity to a police officer.

City officials said police officers will patrol the race course and ambulances will be stationed around the city for the event.

Two detours will be in place for those who need to get inside the course perimeter during the half marathon:

1. Take I-195 east to Penniman Street, then to County, Parker, and Cottage streets.

2. Take I-195 west to Rt. 18 south to Rt. 6 to Mill and Cottage streets.

More information on the race and race day activities is available at newbedfordhalfmarathon.com.