Tallinn Marathon this weekend to bring temporary traffic restrictions
Tallinn will host its marathon this weekend, temporarily closing or restricting streets in several districts and altering public transport schedules.
Several major races that are part of the Tallinn Marathon begin on Saturday, September 12, in the districts of Põhja-Tallinn, Kesklinn and Haabersti, where temporary traffic restrictions will apply. Some streets will be closed as early as 8:45 a.m., with intermittent restrictions lasting until 7:30 p.m.
Mati Lilliallik, the marathon's chief organizer, said the busiest traffic periods are expected Saturday morning in the city center and Põhja-Tallinn, and Saturday afternoon in Põhja-Tallinn, the Kalamaja area and the city center, advising residents to allow extra time.
To ease congestion, special crossing points will be set up in several locations to let both runners and vehicles pass. Crossing is expected to take about 10–15 minutes, though waits may be longer during peak hours. One of the largest such points will be at the intersection of Sõle street and Kolde puiestee.
On Sunday, when the marathon itself takes place, there will be fewer restrictions, but they will also extend to the Stroomi and Rocca al Mare areas. Lilliallik noted that Sunday morning could see some congestion in the city center and Kalamaja, while afternoon traffic may be affected in Põhja-Tallinn and, to a lesser extent, around Rocca al Mare, though overall Sunday will be calmer.
Several bus and trolleybus routes will also change, running on a free schedule instead of fixed timetables. Tram service on routes 1 and 5 will be suspended from 9:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. on Saturday and from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, while tram route 2 will run a shortened route only as far as the Linnahall stop.
Tallinn deputy mayor Joel Jesse asked all road users to take the changes and temporary restrictions into account, adding that running competitions are valuable because they motivate people to exercise and take care of their health.
Thousands of athletes are expected to take part in the races, including runners from 93 countries. Organizers recommend residents plan their weekend routes in advance and check traffic schemes on the jooks.ee website.
