Road Closures for El Tour de Tucson

Every year, El Tour de Tucson draws thousands of cyclists and spectators to the streets of Tucson, Arizona. This popular cycling event not only showcases impressive athleticism but also brings significant changes to local traffic patterns. For residents, commuters, and visitors, understanding the road closures during the event is essential to plan ahead and avoid disruptions.

This post explains the key road closures for El Tour de Tucson, how they affect daily travel, and tips to navigate the city smoothly during the event.

On Saturday, November 22nd, that westbound Valencia from Houghton to Kolb will be closed for El Tour de Tucson.  Cyclist riding the 102-mile race as well as those in the 63-mile race will use westbound Valencia as part of the 42nd El Tour de Tucson routes.  Electronic signs will be placed to let drivers know about the closure of westbound Valencia in the near future.  At this time, we do not know how long the closure will be on Saturday, November 22nd.

Please plan ahead if you intend to travel that day.

Barricades and signs marking road closures for El Tour de Tucson

What is El Tour de Tucson?

El Tour de Tucson is an annual cycling event held in Tucson, Arizona, attracting thousands of riders from beginners to professionals. The event features multiple route options ranging from 15 miles to 111 miles, winding through city streets and scenic desert landscapes. It usually takes place in November and is one of the largest cycling events in the United States.

Because the event covers extensive parts of the city and surrounding areas, organizers coordinate with local authorities to close roads for rider safety. These closures impact traffic flow and require advance planning.

Key Road Closures During the Event

The road closures for El Tour de Tucson typically begin early on race day and last until the last riders have passed through. Here are the main areas affected:

• Downtown Tucson: Several streets in the downtown area close to accommodate the start and finish lines. Streets like Congress Street, Stone Avenue, and parts of Broadway Boulevard often see closures.

• Major Arterials: Roads such as Oracle Road, Speedway Boulevard, and Grant Road may have intermittent closures or lane restrictions as cyclists pass.

• Suburban and Rural Roads: Depending on the route, roads outside the city, including parts of Ina Road, River Road, and Camino del Cerro, may close temporarily.

• Neighborhood Streets: Some residential areas along the routes may experience full or partial closures to ensure rider safety.

  
  

Closures usually start as early as 5:00 AM and can last until mid-afternoon, depending on the route and rider speed.

How Road Closures Affect Daily Travel

For residents and commuters, these closures can cause delays and detours. Here’s what to expect:

• Longer Commute Times: Expect delays on major roads and alternate routes as traffic diverts.

• Limited Access to Businesses: Some businesses along the route may have restricted access during the event.

• Public Transit Adjustments: Bus routes may be altered or delayed due to road closures.

• Parking Restrictions: Temporary no-parking zones are common near the race routes.

  
  

Planning ahead can reduce frustration and help maintain your schedule.

Tips for Navigating Tucson During El Tour de Tucson

To minimize inconvenience, consider these practical tips:

• Check Official Maps and Updates: The event website and local news outlets provide detailed maps and closure schedules. Review these before race day.

• Use Alternate Routes: Plan detours around the closed roads. For example, avoid Speedway Boulevard and use streets like Grant Road or 22nd Street instead.

• Allow Extra Travel Time: Build in additional time for your commute or errands.

• Consider Public Transit: Some bus lines may still operate with detours; check schedules in advance.

• Avoid Driving Near Start/Finish Areas: Downtown Tucson will be busiest early in the morning and late afternoon.

• Support the Event: If possible, attend as a spectator or volunteer to enjoy the community spirit.

  
  

Examples of Past Closures and Their Impact

In previous years, the closure of Broadway Boulevard between Euclid Avenue and Country Club Road caused significant rerouting for commuters heading east. Drivers were advised to use 22nd Street or Speedway Boulevard as alternatives. Similarly, Oracle Road closures required detours through smaller neighborhood streets, which increased local traffic.

Local businesses near the start line on Congress Street reported a drop in morning customers but saw increased foot traffic from spectators later in the day. Public transit agencies adjusted routes and schedules to accommodate the event, communicating changes through social media and station announcements.

How to Stay Informed

Staying updated is key to managing the impact of road closures:

• Official Event Website: Check for the latest maps, schedules, and alerts.

• City of Tucson Traffic Updates: Follow the city’s transportation department for real-time traffic information.

• Local News Outlets: Radio and TV stations often provide live updates on closures and traffic conditions.

• Social Media: Follow event organizers and local authorities on platforms like Twitter for quick updates.

  
  

Final Thoughts on El Tour de Tucson Road Closures

El Tour de Tucson is a major event that brings excitement and community spirit to Tucson. While road closures can disrupt daily routines, understanding the timing and locations of these closures helps residents and visitors plan effectively. By checking official sources, using alternate routes, and allowing extra travel time, you can navigate the city smoothly during the event.