The Honolulu Police Department has issued a reminder to the public regarding significant road closures and traffic delays expected on Sunday due to the Honolulu Marathon. This annual event is set to impact various neighborhoods as marathon participants traverse a course that begins on Ala Moana Boulevard, proceeds through downtown areas, and extends out to Hawaii Kai before returning to conclude at Kapiolani Park.
Traffic control measures will commence early, starting at 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, with the race beginning promptly at 5 a.m. HPD officials have emphasized that road and lane closures will be observed across several districts, including downtown, Kakaako, Ala Moana, Waikiki, Diamond Head, Kahala, Aina Haina, Niu Valley, and East Honolulu.
Beginning at 12:30 a.m., one or more lanes along the designated race course will be closed off or coned for the event’s duration. Roads will gradually reopen as participants clear each area. HPD has also announced that tow-away zones will be in effect from 12 a.m. until 5 p.m. to facilitate smoother management of the event.
For residents and spectators seeking more information, detailed traffic advisories are available, along with a comprehensive marathon route map.
In addition to the traffic management, officials have implemented stringent regulations regarding drone usage during the marathon. The Federal Aviation Administration has sanctioned a temporary flight restriction for the event due to safety concerns. “Unauthorized drones pose a serious safety risk to event attendees,” HPD officials warned, highlighting that enhanced enforcement measures will be employed to track illegal drone operators.
A significant police presence is anticipated at both the start and finish lines, as well as along the entire race course. Maj. Clifford Ramson from HPD’s Major Events Division has stressed the department’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all runners, spectators, and the wider community during the marathon. “Our top priority is to ensure that runners, spectators and the wider community can enjoy a safe Honolulu Marathon this year,” he remarked. He encouraged everyone in attendance to heed the directions from officers and first responders to foster a secure environment for this community event.
