NYC Marathon's New Route: Less Turns, More Access for Bronx Residents

New York City’s iconic marathon is set to return with a fresh twist next month, changing its course for the first time in 15 years. The route, which will be used on November 1, 2026, aims to improve accessibility for local businesses while still providing a challenging race experience.

For years, the marathon route in the Bronx included a loop around a block with a supermarket and laundromat, which temporarily cut off access for residents. The new route will keep runners on Alexander Avenue, passing through 141st Street, Third Avenue, and 138th Street before crossing the Madison Avenue Bridge. This change reduces the number of turns and maintains access to essential services for the nearby Patterson Houses, a neighborhood with nearly 1,800 units.

‘I had some sensitivities to that because those sections of the Bronx are food deserts,’ said Ted Metellus, the race director, who grew up in the borough. The change reflects the evolving residential nature of the area and the organizers’ commitment to supporting local communities.

The new route is part of the marathon’s 50th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its history. It’s a small but meaningful adjustment that will benefit both the runners and the residents of the Bronx.