Traffic patterns in Tempe will shift significantly this Sunday as the annual Cactus Man triathlon makes its return to Tempe Town Lake for what organizers say will be its final year in the city.
The event, now in its seventh year, is scheduled to begin at 6 a.m., with road restrictions starting as early as 5 a.m. Authorities expect closures and detours to remain in place until around 2 p.m., though adjustments may be made throughout the day to maintain safety for participants and spectators.
Several key corridors surrounding the lake will be affected. Portions of Rio Salado Parkway will see the most disruption, including full closures in both directions between Mill Avenue and Priest Drive. Eastbound lanes will also be reduced between Priest and Hardy drives. Meanwhile, westbound traffic approaching Mill Avenue will be forced to detour, with drivers directed either north or south along Mill.
Additional closures will impact nearby routes. Hardy Drive will be shut down heading north between First Street and Rio Salado Parkway, though limited access will remain for the Tempe Center for the Arts. Priest Drive will also be restricted northbound from Rio Salado Parkway to Washington Street, redirecting drivers back toward Rio Salado.
Further south, Center Parkway will be closed in the southbound direction between Washington Street and the westbound exit ramp for State Route 202, adding to the broader traffic impact.
Freeway access will not be spared. Drivers exiting eastbound State Route 202 at Priest Drive will have to choose between north or southbound travel, while those exiting westbound near Center Parkway will be rerouted toward Washington Street. In addition, eastbound on-ramps at both Priest Drive and Center Parkway will be temporarily closed.
City officials are urging motorists to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, or avoid the area entirely during the event window. With this being the final year Tempe hosts the triathlon, organizers anticipate strong participation and attendance, making early preparation especially important for residents and commuters alike.
