CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — Thousands of runners filled the streets early Saturday morning for the annual Cooper River Bridge Run, one of the Lowcountry’s most anticipated events. But while the race begins with excitement at the starting line, another major effort begins just as quickly once runners move on: the cleanup.
As soon as the final runners crossed the starting line, the race route—particularly along Coleman Boulevard—was covered with discarded items. Water cups, energy gel packets, and piles of clothing lined the streets, marking the beginning of a large-scale cleanup operation. City crews and volunteers wasted no time getting started, moving block by block to clear debris and restore the roadway.
PHOTOS: 2026 Cooper River Bridge Run best moments, costumes and wins“…