The 25th running of the Monument Avenue 10k will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 20. Whether you’re planning to run the race, cheer from the sidelines, or you’re just looking to avoid any road closures — here’s a rundown of what to expect.
History
The first Monument 10k was held in 2000. Its first year, only 2,462 people signed up to run. By 2006, it had grown into the the fourth-largest 10k and the 22nd-largest race of any distance in the country. Past winners have included world-class distance runners like Abdi Abdirahman, Kellyn Taylor, and Paul Chelimo, as well as local legends like Silas Frantz and 2023 Richmond Marathon winner Bethany Sachtleben.
Road closures
West Franklin Street between Laurel and Belvidere will be closed to parking beginning on Thursday, April 18 at 10 a.m. The real bulk of the closures begin on Friday.
Closures on Franklin will extend west to Harrison Street on Friday. Laurel, Pine, and Shafer will also close between Franklin and Grace Streets. Parts of Grove, Park, and Floyd will also be shut down.
The biggest closures will come on the morning of the race. Large swaths of the Fan and the Museum District will be closed to traffic — see this document for a full list.
Competitors
Those driving themselves to the race should be prepared to park a good half mile from the course — consider this your warm up. Sports Backers offers a free bike valet if two wheels are more your style.
If you’d rather save your legs for the race, take the Pulse to the VCU/VUU stop close to the start line at Broad and Harrison.
Where to watch
The sidelines of the whole course are open to pedestrians. The medians will feature live music, local organizations, and lots of cheering, so those willing to wander can find a show to enjoy just as much as the runners.
If you don’t live near the course, getting there can be tricky. Your options are generally either to park on Broad (west of North Allen), or in the Museum District near Hanover or Stuart Avenues.
One of the best ways to get to the course efficiently is by bicycle, which takes parking out of the equation. Or, if you feel like expressing some solidarity with the runners, Saturday should be a lovely day for a jog.
