Runners, Spectators: Manchester Road Race Shuttle System Has Slight Change for 2016

MANCHESTER, CT — There is a slight change to the shuttle bus system for Thursday's 80th edition of the Manchester Road Race. Plus, 11,466 had signed up for the Thanksgiving Day classic as of last week, so race officials are encouraging runners and spectators to get an early start.

Here are the particulars from race officials:

Parking

• The east parking area at Manchester Community College will be used exclusively this year because of construction work in the area, organizers said.

Pickups

• Those taking the shuttle will be picked up at the MCC parking area only this year. Highway signs will direct drivers to the pickup location. Those using the shuttles should be in line by 8:30 a.m., race officials said. The amount of buses being used has doubled for 2016, so multiple buses will be loaded at the same time, race officials said.

Drop-Offs

• Those taking the shuttle will be dropped off on Linden Street behind the park.

Before the Race

• Buses will depart continuously between 7:45 and 9:15 a.m.

After the Race

• Return trips will run continuously between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

There is no charge for runners and spectators. No pets are allowed.

The race is slated to begin at 10 a.m. on Main Street in front of St. James Church. The costume contest is scheduled for 8 a.m. at the Mary Cheney Library, 586 Main St.

Photo Credit: Chris Dehnel