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Mercedes-Benz Corporate 5K Run Takes Over Downtown Miami

MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- Thousands of runners hit the road for the annual Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run.  The event has become a yearly tradition for many companies in South Florida.  A number of companies, including CBS4 sponsor the race.

"It's a blast. It's a fun time," said Kaydy Valdes who is running the race for the second time.

The 5k draws experienced runners as well as those who just want to get a little exercise after work. Nearly  850 companies are participating in the event.

Kimberly Dorvilier said it will be her first race, "I work out. I stay fit, but something like this is a first," she said.

"People walk people run. The good good people are at the beginning of the whole herd," said Valdes.

As more than 25,000 runners make their way down the road, there will be plenty of police keeping an eye on the participants and the crowds.

Officer Kenia Reyes with Miami Police explained, "We definitely have officers posted throughout the entire race course and around the detours too to assist anyone with any questions."

Police say security will be similar to last year's race.

"We always take precautionary measures. We look out for anything that's distinctive, but if you're going to this event and you're going to participate in the cheering on, try to do away with bringing the backpacks."

The goal is keeping everyone safe while having a good time.

"It's more like a corporate hangout kind of party.  It's like the happiest happy hour," said Valdes.

Participants are encouraged to take advantage of the Metrorail and Metromover.  For more information, visit Miami-Dade Transit's website at www.miamidade.gov/transit

The race began promptly at 6:45 p.m.

The race started on Biscayne Boulevard and Flagler Street and traveled South on Biscayne Blvd to Biscayne Blvd Way / SE 4th Street and West bound to SE 2nd Avenue then South over the Brickell Avenue Bridge to S.E. 13th St, West on S.E. 13th St. to S.W. 2nd Avenue, North on SW 2nd Ave to N.W. 1st Street, East on N.W. 1st Street to N.E. 2nd Avenue, North on N.E. 2nd Avenue to N.E. 4th Street, East on N.E. 4th Street to Biscayne Blvd. and culminated at Bayfront Park.

Click Here For A Map Of The Route

Roadways reopen as the last of the participants pass and Miami Police Department deems it safe.

Estimates:

  • Brickell Avenue: 7:30 p.m.
  • Miami Avenue South of the River: 7:45 p.m.
  • SW/NW 2nd Avenue: 8:00 p.m.
  • NW/NE 1st Street: 8:30 p.m.
  • Miami Avenue North of the River: 8:45 p.m.
  • Remaining Streets reopen: 8:45 p.m.

The Northbound lanes of Biscayne Boulevard should be re-opened to traffic around midnight.

Please Note:

  1. Brickell Key, Claughton Island and Eastbound 8th Street will detour onto SW 2nd Ave to SW 15th Road and will continue to Brickell Bay Drive/Bayshore Drive.
  2. Streets south of the Miami River should be clear of runners and walkers by approximately 7:45 p.m. and open to traffic. Streets north of the Miami River should be clear by approximately 8:45 p.m. Exiting downtown will be easiest via I-95.
  3. After 2 p.m., use 395/MacArthur Cswy and exit on Biscayne Blvd to access the Port of Miami.
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