MADISON (WKOW) -- The weekend outlook for the IRONMAN competition is clearing up. Race Director Ryan Richards said Lake Monona has been tested and is safe for participants to swim in. After historic flooding causing high lake levels, debris and bacteria were concerns.
Richards said the only change is where participants will enter the water. The entry point has been moved about a 100 meters from the original location, next to the bike rack, due to deep water.
Also with parts of John Nolen’s bike path closed, an alternative route has been added. This was a last-minute change for IRONMAN officials, but they're pleased the event will still go on.
“This is my job, the dedication of the athletes the dedication of our several thousand volunteers who are ready to come out and support these athletes, it's just better for everyone to figure out a way to produce this event inside of canceling it," Richards said.
Mayor Paul Soglin said to continue to use caution when navigating streets and bike paths along the east isthmus and to keep sandbags in place that are protecting your property. After a few weeks of dry weather, the city will provide a curbside pick up to get rid of sandbags.
Boat launches are also closed until further notice at Olbrich Park, Law Park, and Olin Park.
Street/Bike path updates:
· Olin Turville Court: City Engineering is making repairs to a sanitary sewer located in Olin Turville Park on Olin-Turville Court. Complete details and a detour map are posted on the city’s website. Work is expected to be completed Friday evening.
· East Johnson Street remains closed between N. Baldwin Street and Fordem Avenue. The City continues to monitor conditions daily. There is no estimate yet as to when E. Johnson St. will re-open.
· Monona Terrace Bike Path: Although the bike path is open, water is still present on the path. Heed the warning signs along the path, travel slowly, and proceed with caution.
Parking Updates
· Williamson Street: Parking restrictions on Williamson Street have been extended through next Friday, September 14. All lanes on Williamson Street will be used for traffic to help ease congestion.
· East Washington Avenue: Parking is allowed on East Washington Avenue, except where barricades are in place due to flooding.
· Street Maintenance Parking Restrictions: Weekly street maintenance parking restrictions between Blair St. and the Yahara River will resume Monday, Sept. 10.
· Parking Garages: Free overnight parking in all city-owned parking garages continues through Friday, Sept. 14. Late night pay resumes the evening of Saturday, Sept. 15.