The New York City Marathon announced on Wednesday that a portion of its traditional route will be altered in the Bronx’s Mott Haven neighborhood, representing the first modification to that segment in fifteen years.
The adjustment involves a short stretch of the course that runs through Mott Haven, a residential area in the South Bronx. Organizers described the change as limited to a small section, leaving the remainder of the marathon’s path unchanged.
Since its inception, the marathon has been known for a largely fixed circuit that traverses all five boroughs of New York City. Over the past decade and a half, the route has remained consistent, allowing runners and spectators to anticipate the same streets and landmarks each year.
By altering only a brief segment in Mott Haven, officials aim to preserve the overall integrity of the historic course while accommodating the specific needs of that neighborhood. The modification does not affect the marathon’s signature progression from Staten Island, through Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and back into the Bronx.
Runners preparing for this year’s race will need to note the updated map for the Bronx portion, though the majority of the 26.2‑mile distance will follow the familiar streets that have defined the event for generations. The change underscores the marathon’s long‑standing commitment to a stable route while allowing for occasional, targeted adjustments.
The announcement was made in advance of the upcoming race, giving participants ample time to study the revised segment. As the marathon approaches, the city’s five boroughs will again host thousands of athletes and spectators, with the Mott Haven alteration representing a modest but notable departure from a decade‑and‑half of route stability.