The law enforcement agencies and community partners throughout the North Country, will participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics New York in Plattsburgh.
The event will take place on Friday, September 11, 2026, with a ceremony beginning at 10:15 a.m. at CV Tech located at 1585 Military Turnpike Extension, Plattsburgh, NY. Media members are welcome to attend and may arrive at the starting location any time after 9:30 a.m.
The Torch Run will begin at CV Tech and proceed from the Military Turnpike Extension onto U.S. Route 3, continue onto Cornelia Street, and conclude at Plattsburgh City Hall.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run is a statewide effort that brings law enforcement and communities together to raise awareness and support for Special Olympics in New York and its athletes. The event represents the dedication of law enforcement officers and community members who come together to promote inclusion, acceptance, and opportunity for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
This year’s event holds special significance as the nation marks the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001.
Twenty-five years later, we continue to remember the nearly 3,000 innocent people who lost their lives that day, as well as the countless first responders, military personnel, volunteers, families, and communities forever changed by the events of September 11.
We remember the police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, military members, and civilians who made the ultimate sacrifice. We remember those who ran toward danger while others were running away, answering the call to protect and save others.
The New York State Police also remember the members of our own State Police family who have died from illnesses stemming from their service at the World Trade Center following the September 11 attacks. Their dedication and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
The 25th anniversary is an opportunity to pause and reflect on the courage, compassion, and unity displayed in the aftermath of that tragic day. It is also a reminder of the responsibility carried by those who serve, to protect others, to stand together in times of need, and to never forget those who gave everything in service to others.
As law enforcement officers carry the Torch through the streets of Plattsburgh, they do so not only in support of Special Olympics athletes, but also with a profound respect for the men, women, and families whose lives were forever changed on September 11, 2001.
We remember. We honor. We will never forget.
The numerous law enforcement agencies, public safety partners, businesses, and community organizations whose participation and support make this event possible, including:
U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Air & Marine Operations, Plattsburgh Unit
U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Field Operations, Champlain Port of Entry
U.S. Department of Homeland Security – U.S. Border Patrol, Swanton Sector
Federal Bureau of Prisons – FCI Ray Brook
Plattsburgh City Police Department
Clinton County Sheriff’s Office
Northern Regional Special Response Team
Saranac Lake Police Department
Lake Placid Police Department
Clinton Community College – Zone 9 Police Academy
Essex County Sheriff’s Office
New York State Unified Court Officers
Plattsburgh State University Police
New York State Environmental Conservation Police
New York State Forest Rangers
New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision – Clinton Correctional Facility
Clinton County Probation Department
Drug Enforcement Administration – Plattsburgh Field Office
New York State Police – Troop B
Texas Roadhouse – Plattsburgh
Walmart Supercenter – Plattsburgh
Taylor Rental
Finney Sports
Zone 9 academy
We would like to thank all the participating agencies, businesses, volunteers, Special Olympics athletes, families, and community members for their continued support of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics New York.
*TRAFFIC ADVISORY
Motorists traveling through Plattsburgh on the morning of the event should prepare for slow-moving traffic and possible temporary traffic delays as participants make their way along the Torch Run route.
Potential traffic delays may occur at or near the following intersections:
Route 3 and Military Turnpike Extension
Industrial Boulevard
Hammond Lane
Route 3 and Interstate 87
LaBarre Road
Smithfield Boulevard
Consumer Square
Hailey Avenue
Motorists are asked to use caution, allow additional travel time, and be alert for runners, pedestrians, emergency vehicles, and law enforcement personnel along the route.
All law enforcement agencies appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we come together to support Special Olympics New York and honor the lives and sacrifices remembered on the 25th anniversary of September 11.
*Media Information:
Media members are invited to attend the ceremony. Media may arrive at CV Tech, 1585 Military Turnpike Extension, Plattsburgh, NY, beginning at 9:30 a.m. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10:15 a.m.
