Navigating the City of Richmond during the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k is not quite as simple as “on your mark, get set, go.” Road closures and crowds can make it tricky to run your race or to just enjoy your Saturday in the city.
CityParking Inc. has compiled a guide for getting around whether you’re driving, running or both.
For the Runners
You’re already running your 6.2 miles; you don’t want to add too much surprise mileage to your day. The kids race kicks off at 8 a.m. and the adults cross the start line at 8:30 a.m.
The runners will start in different waves with people moving through the start line from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. to allow everyone from elite runners to casual walkers to compete with people planning to run similar speeds.
You’ll want to get to the start line early in order to do your final stretches, start your running watch and get in your correct wave.
In the days leading up to the race you’re focused on training, laying out your outfit and picking up your race day packet. You may not have even considered how exactly the race morning will go.
You’re probably going to wake up early and drink some water or coffee, whatever fuel you need, and grab your favorite running shoes. Then when you head out, you’ll need to find a parking spot near the start and finish lines.
The race starts at the intersection of West Broad Street and N Harrison Street. You’ll finish up at the intersection of W Franklin Street and Shafer Street, in the heart of VCU’s Monroe Park Campus.
From there you’ll head towards the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and Monroe Park to meet up with your family and everyone who came to watch you run. You’ll get to join the Sheehy Post Race Festival to grab goodies and have some fun.
With all of this process and planning, the one thing missing is parking. There is no guaranteed race parking for participants so it’s up to you to find a spot. There is street parking in the area that will be first-come first-serve, as well as VCU parking that can be booked in advance. CityParking has parking lots just around the block from the start and finish lines, you’ll be able to secure a spot and take a quick walk over to the race.
For the Spectators
You won’t be the only one who wants to cheer on the runners and have a little bit of fun for themselves. The 10k race draws large crowds to Richmond’s Monument Avenue each year.
Scattered among the course are pit stops for the runners and entertainment for everyone in attendance. There are bands and DJs playing live music throughout the entire race.
The 10k organizers have even made plans to reward the spectators bringing the most spirit to race day. There will be a community spirit contest with cash prizes of up to $250 for spectators that show their support in the most fun and creative ways. You’re encouraged to dance, cheer, make signs and anything else you can dream up.
You can get to the course early and watch the fastest runner or you can sleep in a little and get there in time to cheer on joggers and walkers alike.
Richmond’s Fan and Museum District neighborhoods are crowded even just on a random weekday. Your parking strategy may have to be even more creative than your cheers. If you’re looking for a lot near where all the action is happening, check CityParking’s Museum District and Fan locations:
You Don’t Have to Race for Parking
CityParking has you covered for parking whether you’re warming up for your run, racing to the finish line, holding up your best poster or grabbing some delicious food afterwards. Parking lots in the Fan and Museum District neighborhoods will keep your race day stress free. Meanwhile, any day out in Richmond is made easier with our lots in Downtown, Shockoe Bottom and the Arts District.
Download Park Mobile or Honk on your phone to easily use CityParking’s contactless parking lots all over Richmond.