Expect traffic disruptions and service changes this weekend ahead of the 2025 Prince George Iceman on Sunday, Feb. 9.
There's also the possibility of weather issues, organizers told The Citizen last week.
From 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. on race day, traffic will be affected along Foothills Boulevard between Otway Road and 18th Avenue.
The event begins at 10 a.m. Drivers should expect:
- Traffic stops on Otway Road: Two brief stoppages are expected on Otway Road as runners cross the road – one near the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club and another near Foothills Boulevard
- Reduced traffic lanes on Foothills Boulevard: Southbound lanes will be reduced to a single lane between Otway Road and 18th Avenue
- Signalized Intersection Changes: Two key intersections — Foothills Boulevard at University Way/15th Avenue, and Ospika Boulevard at 22nd Avenue — will operate as four-way stops due to red-flash signals during the event
- Road closures for runners: A five-kilometre run will take place starting from the Ice Oval and proceeding through most roads in the Pinewood subdivision, reaching Ospika Boulevard via Massey Drive
- Bike lane closures: The bike lane along the north side of Massey Drive and the west side of Ospika Boulevard from Massey Drive to the Exhibition Park access will be closed. However, the sidewalk will remain open to pedestrians
- Traffic stop on 18th Avenue: Brief stoppages will also occur on 18th Avenue while runners cross the road between Exhibition Park and the Aquatic Centre
The City of Prince George urges drivers to exercise caution and reduce their speed in the event area, as runners will be sharing the roads and sidewalks.
Signage will be posted throughout the area, and traffic control personnel will be on hand to guide both drivers and event participants.
The Prince George Aquatic Centre's main pool will be closed until approximately 4:30 p.m. for the swimming portion of the event. However, the wave pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room and gym will remain open with regular hours from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
For public transit users, three southbound stops on Ospika Boulevard between Exhibition Park and Massey Drive will be closed, and delays may occur. Passengers are advised to check the BC Transit alerts page for the latest updates on route information.
For additional event details, including detailed maps, visit the official Prince George Iceman website.