GREEN BAY — Finding a parking spot shouldn’t be as big an issue during this year’s Bellin Run. That’s because the 33rd annual event will offer a free shuttle service as part of the day’s events.
The shuttle service, a feature added during last year’s run event, will pick up people from the Shopko store at the East Town Mall in Green Bay and the Shopko store at Bay Park Square Mall in Ashwaubenon – a new addition this year. Those using the shuttle will be dropped off at Astor Park, the new site of the race expo and event festivities.
“With an expected increase in the number of registrant this year, we understand how difficult trying to find a parking spot and getting from one place to another can be,” said Randy Van Straten, Bellin Run race director. “By offering the bus services on the day of the race, participants can focus more on what’s most important — the race.”
The buses will pick up people every 15 minutes from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. Return shuttles will run from 9 a.m. to noon.
This year’s Bellin Run starts at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 13. In addition to services like the shuttle buses, Bellin Run race officials have also instituted other changes to accommodate the expected boost in registrations this year. Last year 15,149 registrants signed up to run or walk the Bellin.
Other changes this year include a new location for the race expo and event festivities. Those will be held at Astor Park at Porlier and Clay streets. Also, the Friday children’s race will take place on the perimeter streets of Astor Park, the designated drop-off point for shuttle buses.
“It’s all part of the effort to create a less congested Bellin Run experience,” Van Straten said. “With so many people in one area, safety for everyone involved is a top priority. By moving some of our race-related events to Astor Park, using wave starts and offering a shuttle bus service, we can be confident that participants will be able to maneuver easily – and safety – on and around the race route.”
Online registration for the Bellin Run began February 23 at www.bellinrun.com. Early online registration is $17 through May 31. Mail-in registration is $20. Late online registration June 1-11 is $20. Mail-in registration June 1 through June 11 is $23. On race weekend, participants can register after 4 p.m. June 12 through race day for $25 at the Astor Park registration tent. All participants receive a Bellin Run T-shirt.
