Chilly half-marathon won’t change race route, some residents upset

The Chilly half-marathon will not be changing its route in the new year.

Five of seven Burlington, Ont., city councillors voted to not create a committee of local residents, city staff and race organizers to discuss potential changes to the race route. The vote was preceded by three hours of debate. The debate came about as a result of a 150-name petition presented to council by locals residents who want the race route changed.

In recent years the March event has upset some residents along or surrounded by the race because they are unable to drive in or out of their neighbourhoods for four hours the morning of the run.

Race organizers said they may alter the route slightly to accommodate, within reason, some residents, but the path of the race will remain largely intact and noted locals should not expect any major changes.

Homes affected by the route are notified well in advance of the road closures and are given a number to call for personal assistance getting around the day of the race.

Most residents of Burlington enjoy having the race in town but have noted the route could be changed to lessen the inconvenience to those along the course, according to Insidehalton.com. Some would also like the number of runners capped at 5,000 to prevent it from growing too large. The race attracted 4,500 entrants last year.

In 2014 the event will be held on March 2.