It will have a "pulse" start, according to Rancourt, with runners six feet apart and small groups starting every 10 seconds. Runners will also be required to wear masks for the first mile, and at the finish line. Spectators are discouraged from attending and won't be allowed at the start, although the Providence Marathon website identifies several spots along both the half and full marathon courses that are good for viewing. "The course is a nice mix of historic urban and rural neighborhoods as the race starts in Downtown Providence and heads south towards the East Bay and Barrington," the marathon's website says. "The tree lined East Bay Bike path provides plenty of shade and scenic views of the Providence river and skyline."