Charleston is getting ready for one of its biggest annual events, and with thousands of runners taking part, traffic changes will affect many parts of the city. If you are planning to travel this weekend, it’s important to know the road closures and timings in advance.
Thousands Set for Cooper River Bridge Run
Around 37,000 people have registered for the Cooper River Bridge Run, making it one of the largest races in the region. Race Director Irv Batten confirmed the numbers, showing how popular the event continues to be.
The race will begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday in Mount Pleasant, and runners are expected to be in their assigned groups by 7 a.m.
Early Road Closures Begin Friday Night
Some roads will start closing even before race day:
- Meeting Street (Calhoun to Wentworth) closes at 8 p.m. Friday
- George Street (King to Anson) closes at 9 p.m. Friday
- Expect traffic delays on Coleman Boulevard in Mount Pleasant
These early closures are meant to prepare the race route and ensure safety.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge Closures
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge will be fully closed on race morning:
- All lanes close at 7 a.m.
- Wonderway pedestrian lane closes at 6:30 a.m.
- Southbound traffic will be diverted to Mathis Ferry Road
- Bridge expected to reopen around 11 a.m.
This is one of the most important closures, as the bridge connects Charleston and Mount Pleasant.
Downtown Charleston Road Closures
Several major roads in downtown Charleston will be closed early Saturday:
- Calhoun Street (multiple sections): Midnight to around 2 p.m.
- King Street (Cannon to Hasell): From early morning
- Meeting Street (John to Hasell): From 4 a.m.
- George, Anson, Charlotte, and Elizabeth Streets: From 4–4:30 a.m.
Most of these roads are expected to reopen by noon, depending on how quickly runners finish and cleanup is completed.
Traffic near Marion Square and the finish line may remain delayed for longer.
Mount Pleasant Road Closures
In Mount Pleasant, key closures include:
- Coleman Boulevard (Fairmount to Hibben): 3 a.m.
- Coleman Boulevard (Chuck Dawley to Live Oak): 5 a.m.
- Coleman Boulevard (Bridge to Live Oak): 6 a.m.
Most of these areas are expected to reopen by around 10 a.m., except a few nearby streets.
Race Route Closures
The main race route will fully close at 6 a.m., including:
- Meeting Street
- King Street
- Wentworth Street
- Society Street
- George Street
- Hutson Street
These roads will reopen gradually as runners finish and crews clear the area.
Travel Tips for Residents
If you are travelling on race day, keep these points in mind:
- Plan alternate routes in advance
- Leave earlier than usual
- Avoid downtown Charleston and Coleman Boulevard during peak hours
- Follow traffic updates from local authorities
