Several streets in Lakewood and East Dallas will be temporarily closed this weekend as thousands of runners compete in events organized by the BMW Dallas Marathon.
The two-day event begins Saturday with multiple children’s races, a 2-mile walk, a 5K and a 10K. It ends Sunday with a 26.2-mile loop that passes through downtown, Deep Ellum, the M Streets, Lakewood, White Rock Lake and Swiss Avenue.
The 48th iteration could be the last under the Dallas Marathon name. The organization’s president, Paul Lambert, told the Dallas Morning News that he wants a new name that reflects the variety of events that are part of the race weekend.
Rain and thunderstorms are likely Saturday, but the weather is expected to clear for Sunday’s races, with highs in the mid-40s. Race officials and National Weather Service meteorologists will monitor the weather for heavy rain, thunder, lightning, high winds and extreme temperatures to decide if the course should be modified.
Lightning may cause the race to be delayed or canceled. The event was canceled in 2013 because of an ice storm that downed power lines and caused slick streets.
Dallas police will be available to direct traffic and ensure all homes and businesses in the area will be able to move freely. Officers will also be able to provide motorists with alternative routes.
Marathon organizers encourage participants and spectators to take the DART to avoid traffic and parking delays. The Convention Center Station is close to the start and finish line, and the Mockingbird and White Rock stations are also close to the course for viewing.
