Driver beware: Traffic restrictions for Ironman event

Ford Ironman Arizona will test the strength of thousands when the 140.6-mile triathlon comes to downtown Tempe Sunday. It may also test the patience of area drivers with its numerous traffic restrictions.

Ironman begins at 6:50 a.m. Sunday and continues until midnight. It will be centered around Tempe Town Lake and surrounding areas. Several roads in Tempe will be closed or restricted throughout the 17-hour event, and race officials advise using alternative routes for travel around or through the city.

Those heading north or south can use Priest Drive or Loop 101. To go east or west, take University Drive or Loop 202.

Here are some of the major road closures:

• Loop 101 at McKellips Road: The off- and on-ramps will be closed from 7 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

• Mill Avenue from Third Street to Rio Salado Parkway: Closed in both directions from 5 a.m. Sunday until midnight.

• Rio Salado Parkway between Ash and Mill avenues: This will serve as the finish line for the event. It will be closed until noon Monday.

• North Lakeview Drive from Washington Street to East Curry Road: Closed in both directions from 7 a.m. Sunday until midnight.

For a complete list of road restrictions and more information on race day, visit ironmanarizona.com and click on "2008 Traffic/Spectator Guide."