Charleston prepares for another economic boost from USA Cycling Championships in May

Event organizers have released maps outlining the routes for the upcoming USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships. The event will return to Charleston May 20-26 after making a multi-million dollar impact in 2024. On May 19, a 4.8-mile paracycling road race will begin and end at Haddad Riverfront Park, moving through downtown and along Kanawha Boulevard. The boulevard will be used the following day as a 6.8-mile paracycling time trial track. On May 20 and 21, cyclists will pedal a 10.4-mile lap along Kanawha Boulevard for time trials. On May 22 and 23, criterium races will use Hale, Quarrier, Summers, Lee and Court streets along with Kanawha Boulevard. This year marks the second installment of a five-year commitment to hold the annual championship in Charleston. Eyewitness News said last year’s event drew nearly 3,000 overnight guests, generating a $4.6 million boost to the local economy.