Downtown delays, closures due to events

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Sunday, Livestrong will hold its annual Ride for the Roses through Sowntown Austin.

Even if you're not taking part, it could impact you. With several other events in town this weekend, get ready for congested roads.

On Sunday, the Livestrong Ride for the Roses will kick off at 8 a.m. at Palmer Event Center. That's near the corner of Barton Springs Road and South First Street. Riverside Drive will be closed from South First Street to Lamar Boulevard most of the day, until around 6 p.m.

More than 4,000 cyclists are expected for the race. Riders will have three options: an 18-, 65- and 100-mile route. All participants will begin and end at the Palmer Event Center and travel south along South First Street and continue on their designated routes.

Expect traffic along the bike route, as well. Traffic control will be in place to allow a limited number of cars through, but drivers should expect traffic delays along the race roads.
Supporters from across the country have shown up to support the foundation's event, including a Friday night gala at the Austin Convention Center.

"It's especially important, with all the negativity towards that," said Victoria Wright, who arrived from Kentucky. "But we need to bring a positive message towards Livestrong. It's more than just about Lance. It's about everyone who is going through cancer."

On Saturday night, the University of Texas home football game will bring some delays as well. As is the case with all home games, the Bevo Boulevard Celebration will take place on home game days.

A full road closure began at midnight and will remain in place until two hours after kickoff along 18th Street between San Jacinto Boulevard and Brazos Street. Travelers headed northbound are recommended to continue to Martin Luther King Boulevard to bypass 18th Street. Those needing to park in the State Parking Garage may access the entrance from Brazos and 17th streets.