Police forces on both sides of the border will be working diligently to ensure the safety of runners, volunteers and spectators at the Detroit Free Press Talmer Bank Marathon this weekend.

Detroit police chief James Craig spoke to the media Wednesday morning to discuss this year's safety measures. The Windsor police traffic unit also outlined the importance of efforts on the Canadian side of the border.  Officials would not discuss specific strategies.

Images of the Boston Marathon bombings still resonate in the minds of many.

"What happened in Boston certainly raises your consciousness that we're still very much in a terrorist rich environment," says Craig.

So far, Craig says there's been no specific threat to Detroit or Windsor.

"We're confident this will be a very safe event, there should be nothing to worry about," says Craig.

Police are asking for assistance from anyone attending the event in Detroit this Sunday:

-Secure your valuables in your locked car out of plain view.

-Please be mindful of the location where you park vehicle. A paid lot offers more security than a street curb.

-Please keep a close eye on your children as it is easy to get separated in large crowds.

-Keep your eyes on where you are walking and not on your phone (apple picking).

-Please be sure to set a meeting location with friends and family after the race and if someone in your party gets separated.

-Clear plastic bags will be provided on-site for the runners. The bag will then be stored in a secure area until after the race.

-All back packs are subject to search.

 

Road closures:

Saturday Oct. 19, 8 a.m. – 12 a.m.

W. Fort St between Washington Blvd & 3rd St

(Closed for thru traffic, cross streets open)

Sunday Oct. 20, 5:45 a.m. – 9 a.m.

-Ambassador Bridge

(Controlled traffic)

-Detroit Windsor Tunnel, 6:45 a.m. – 10 a.m.

(Closed)

 

Race Times:

Wheelchair/Disabilities:

Start Time: 6:58 a.m.

Start & Finish Line: W. Fort St. & Second

International Half Marathon & Full Marathon

Start Time: 7 a.m.

Start & Finish Line: W. Fort St. & Second

5K Marathon

Start Time: 10 a.m.

Start & Finish Line: Lafayette between Cass & Washington Blvd.

U.S. Only Half Marathon

Start Time: 10 a.m.

Start & Finish Line: E. Congress between Randolph & Brush