The 15th annual Citizens Pell Bridge Run will take place Sunday, August 30 at 7 a.m., a departure from its traditional October date to accommodate significant maintenance and improvements planned for the Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge this fall.
The 4-mile run and walk begins in Jamestown and finishes in downtown Newport, offering participants a rare chance to cross the iconic bridge on foot with sweeping views of Narragansett Bay. It is the only day each year that pedestrians are permitted on the bridge.
“We appreciate the continued collaboration with the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority as we adjust the event date for 2026,” said Matt Gray, president of Gray Matter Marketing, which produces the event. “Moving the run to late summer ensures the event can continue safely before the planned improvements and allows participants to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience crossing the Pell Bridge.”
The event is hosted by the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Foundation, with proceeds benefiting nonprofit organizations throughout Rhode Island. Since its start in 2012, the run has raised more than $1.2 million for local and regional nonprofits.
“The Citizens Pell Bridge Run offers participants an opportunity to experience one of Rhode Island’s most iconic landmarks on foot, while supporting nonprofit organizations that make a meaningful difference for communities across the Ocean State,” said Keith Kelly, Rhode Island president at Citizens.
Registration opens May 1 at pellbridgerun.com. Nonprofit organizations seeking grant funding can apply at ritbfoundation.org through June 30.
