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Tour of Somerville organizers tout 2025 turnout, plan expanded community zone for 2026 race
Summary
Tour of Somerville leaders said last year's 80th race drew over 10,000 attendees and outlined 2026 plans for an expanded, safety‑focused community zone with vendors, family activities, and a controlled adult beverage area.
Organizers of the Tour of Somerville presented to the borough council on Feb. 17, recounting 2025's 80th running and previewing changes for 2026 aimed at increasing community engagement and safety.
Eric Alvarez, president of the Tour of Somerville, said the 2025 event drew "over 10,000 attendees" who spent an average of about 138 minutes in town. He said athletes came from about 13 countries and 27 states, and the event generated roughly 332,000 social‑media impressions and grew the race's follower base.
Vice president Sheldon Hajes described plans to expand the courthouse‑lawn community zone, add vendors and food trucks, boost kids' activities and create a controlled adult‑beverage area with police and EMT presence near a high‑action corner of the course known as Turn One. Organizers said priority for vendor spots will go to local businesses and that parts of the community zone are intended to be ticketed or fundraising areas to support the race.
Council members and staff praised the group's work and said the borough liaison will continue to coordinate road closures, safety planning and youth engagement opportunities tied to the race.
Organizers said they meet monthly and directed residents and potential vendors to the group's website for details and sponsorship information.
