Utica University is preparing for one of its largest community events of the year as thousands are expected to gather on campus for America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk. The annual event will begin with the Heart Expo on Friday, March 7, in the Clark Athletic Center, followed by the main event on Saturday, March 8.

Shad Crowe, vice president of Emergency Management at Utica University, said extensive preparations are underway to ensure a safe and smooth experience for participants.

“We do so much here on campus to make sure everybody’s safe and secure,” Crowe said. 

Crowe assured that safety is a top priority, with support from the Utica Police Department, Oneida County Sheriff’s Department and New York State Police. 

“They’re not here doing security, but they’re here, and that, in my opinion, raises the level of safety,” Crowe said.

The Heart Expo will be held at the Clark Athletic Center, where visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and informational displays. On Saturday, the Heart Run & Walk will start on Champlin Road, which will be temporarily closed to traffic. Additional road closures will be in place to ensure participant safety, with alternative routes provided for campus access.

As of now, Crowe said that around 650 participants have registered for the event, but that number is expected to rise in the days leading up to the walk. 

“Right now, I think they’re probably… you’ll probably see between 1,000 [to] 1,200 participants actually participating in the walk,” Crowe said.

The event not only raises awareness for heart disease but also fundraises for heart research. Last year, nearly $1 million was raised, and organizers are expecting to match or exceed that amount this year. 

The Heart Run & Walk has long been a staple in the Utica community, bringing together families and friends to support loved ones affected by heart disease.

 “I think, for me, the incredible way this community just shows how much it comes together. It just, I think, tells you everything you need to know about Utica,” Crowe said. “As much bad things that people say, there’s a lot of fantastic people that live here.”

For more information about the Heart Run & Walk or to register, visit this website.