A section of Minton Road between Malabar Road and Jupiter Boulevard will be closed Thursday from 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. as Brevard County law enforcement agencies participate in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run. The event benefits Special Olympics Florida and raises awareness for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The closure affects traffic in Palm Bay, with motorists urged to seek alternate routes during the window.
The torch run starts at 9 a.m. at Sacrifice Park, located between Palm Bay City Hall and the DeGroodt Library. Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies across Brevard County will join the event. Organizers say the run aims to unite the community while supporting programs for individuals with disabilities. The event is part of a statewide initiative to fundraise and promote inclusion.
Participants and spectators are encouraged to attend the run, which has become a local tradition. The route will use Minton Road for part of the course, prompting the temporary closure. Local officials say the event is a chance for residents to show support for Special Olympics athletes and law enforcement alike. No other roads in the area will be closed, but traffic delays are expected near the Sacrifice Park entrance.
Special Olympics Florida representatives say the event helps cover operational costs for year-round programs. Last year’s run raised over $15,000 for the organization. This year’s event is expected to draw similar participation, with officers from sheriff’s offices, police departments, and state agencies all involved. The run typically draws hundreds of attendees, including families, volunteers, and local businesses.
The closure is the first of its kind in Palm Bay this year. Similar events in other parts of Brevard County have used temporary road closures in the past, but this is the first time the route has been planned on Minton Road. Officials emphasize that the event is family-friendly and open to all who want to participate or show support. The run concludes by 11 a.m., after which traffic will resume normal operations.
Residents with questions about the closure or event can contact the Palm Bay Police Department or visit the Special Olympics Florida website. The organization says events like this help bridge gaps between law enforcement and the communities they serve, while directly supporting athletes who compete in sports, arts, and leadership programs.