Steel Rail Races Return Sunday, Route 8 Motorists Use Caution
PITTSFIELD, Mass. – Drivers traveling along Route 8 in Cheshire and Adams should expect delays, lane restrictions, and intermittent closures on Sunday, May 17, due to the MountainOne Steel Rail Races.
Local police, race officials, and DPW teams will be coordinating traffic control throughout the morning to ensure runner and driver safety.
Race Day Traffic Impacts
• Route 8 Delays — Expect slowed traffic and periodic holds between 6:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. especially near trail access points and designated crossing zones.
• Cheshire Center Impacts — Increased pedestrian activity and police?directed traffic near Church St., Farnams Rd., and the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail entrance.
• Adams Travel Restrictions — North Adams line through downtown Adams will see rolling closures as runners pass key intersections.
• Rail Trail Crossings — Motorists should use caution at all Ashuwillticook Rail Trail crossings; officers will be stationed at high?traffic points.
Timing & Areas of Highest Impact
6:30 to 9 a.m.
Marathon and Half Marathon staging creates congestion near Cheshire Elementary School and Rt. 8 trail access.
Rolling delays as early runners enter the trail.
9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Peak runner volume on the Cheshire–Adams corridor.
Intermittent traffic holds at:
• Farnams Road
• Church Street
• Lime Street
• Hoosac Street
• Adams Visitor Center area
12:30 to 1 p.m.
Final runners approach Adams; delays taper as police reopen intersections.
Detours & Driver Recommendations
• Use Rt. 116 or Rt. 7 when possible to bypass the race corridor.
• Allow extra travel time if heading to Sunday services, work shifts, or appointments.
• Expect pedestrian congestion around trailheads and parking areas.
• Follow police direction at all controlled intersections.
Community Impact & Safety
The MountainOne Steel Rail Races bring hundreds of runners, volunteers, and spectators to the Berkshires each year. Local police departments, the Berkshire Running Foundation, and town officials are coordinating to ensure a safe, efficient race day for both participants and residents.
Motorists are asked to drive slowly, stay alert, and plan ahead to avoid delays.
