By Robert Haugh

Drivers near Santa Clara University should expect road closures and traffic delays Saturday morning for the 13th Annual Heart & Soles 5K/10K Run.

The race begins at 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 25. But the traffic impacts will start earlier.

According to the Santa Clara Police Department, road closures and delays are expected from 6 a.m. to about 10:30 a.m. The race course will be fully closed to vehicle traffic at 7:45 a.m.

From 7:45 a.m. to 8:20 a.m., there will be no vehicle access in or out of the course area. 

From 8:20 a.m. to 10 a.m., limited access will be available through Benton Street and El Camino Real, but delays are expected.

All streets are expected to reopen by about 10:30 a.m. on a rolling basis.

Closures are planned on several streets near the Santa Clara University area, including portions of Franklin Street, Lafayette Street, Harrison Street, Alviso Street, southbound El Camino Real, The Alameda, Market Street, Lexington Street, Main Street and nearby ramps around El Camino Real and De La Cruz Boulevard.

Police are warning residents and visitors that vehicles will not be allowed on the race route during the event. Vehicles inside the course area will not be able to leave beginning at 7:45 a.m.

Residents who need to travel Saturday morning should park in their driveway or outside the course area in advance.

Vehicles parked in violation of posted “No Parking” signs may be towed starting at 5 a.m.

Public transit may also be affected. Streets will reopen in stages after the last runner passes.

For emergencies, call 911. For police non-emergency calls, call (408) 615-5580. General police information is available at (408) 615-4700.